At least 37 persons suspected of oil theft have died after inhaling a petroleum product at an illegal tapping point in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The incident reportedly occurred early Thursday at Okari Jetty, where youths from Okrika and neighbouring communities allegedly gathered to load petroleum products from an illegally tapped pipeline.
According to the Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre, the victims inhaled the substance while it was being pumped under high pressure. Some reportedly collapsed, while others fell into the river.
Several people are also believed to be missing, with some bodies reportedly recovered from the water.
The Executive Director of YEAC-Nigeria, Fyneface Dumnamene, called for an immediate investigation into the incident and urged authorities to strengthen security around oil and gas infrastructure.
He also warned youths against tampering with pipelines, citing the dangers associated with high-pressure petroleum products.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the incident, saying the victims were allegedly attempting to steal crude oil.
Police spokesperson Blessing Agabe said no official complaint had been received but confirmed that an investigation had commenced to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
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