By Ezekiel Marshal
A horrific industrial accident at an underground mining site in Zurak, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, has resulted in the deaths of at least 37 miners.
The victims, primarily young men aged between 20 and 35, were overcome by toxic carbon monoxide gas early Wednesday morning, February 18, 2026.
Alongside the fatalities, 25 other miners were rescued and rushed to a nearby primary healthcare facility, where several remain in critical condition.
Reports indicate that the tragedy occurred at a site operated by the Solid Mining Company.
The victims were conducting routine excavation deep within the tunnels when they inhaled lethal concentrations of carbon monoxide.
Experts suggest the gas likely accumulated due to poor ventilation systems common in deep-shaft mining, or as a byproduct of underground machinery or blasting activities.
Eyewitness accounts describe a harrowing scene as miners began collapsing deep inside the poorly ventilated tunnels. Fellow workers and local rescue teams launched a desperate evacuation effort to pull survivors to the surface.
Following the incident, security forces and mining personnel cordoned off the affected area to prevent further exposure to the lingering toxic fumes.
Police sources in Plateau State have confirmed that the site is now under strict control to facilitate an intensive investigation.
