Mining Tragedy in Zamfara: Several feared trapped after pit collapse

The Executive Secretary of the Zamfara State Emergency Management Agency (ZSEMA), Ambassador Bala Ahmad, has confirmed the collapse of multiple mining pits in the Kadauri community of Maru Local Government Area, trapping several artisanal miners.

The tragic incident occurred on Thursday night, following several hours of heavy rainfall, which weakened the soil structure and caused the pits to give way.

Speaking to journalists in Gusau on Friday, Ahmad confirmed the development but said further details would be released after an ongoing emergency meeting with relevant stakeholders.

“Yes, mining pits have collapsed in Kadauri, and several miners are believed to be trapped. We are meeting with emergency responders and community leaders, and will provide full details soon,” he said.

Local residents in Kadauri reported that many miners were working underground when the collapse happened. While the exact number of those trapped remains unknown, sources said injured survivors have been taken to Maru General Hospital for treatment.

Community members, alongside state emergency responders, have been engaged in rescue efforts since the incident occurred, using basic tools to dig through the debris in a race against time.

The state government is expected to issue a formal update as search and rescue operations continue.