04.09.2026 06:30
The death toll from a toxic gas leak during an oil theft attempt in Nigeria's Rivers State has risen to 43. It was reported that some people affected by the gas fainted and fell into the river, while survivors were taken to hospital with breathing difficulties.
An attempt to steal oil in Nigeria's Rivers State ended in tragedy. A toxic gas leak occurred while a large number of people were trying to steal oil at Okari Jetty in the Okrika Local Government Area.
DEATH TOLL RISES TO 43
According to reports in the national press, the number of fatalities rose to 43 as a result of efforts following the incident.
Rivers State Police Spokesperson Agabe Blessing Karbalo stated that those who lost their lives and were poisoned by the gas were attempting to steal oil.
SOME PEOPLE FELL INTO THE RIVER AND WENT MISSING
In the first hours of the incident, it was announced that at least 37 people had died. It was reported that some people affected by the toxic gas fainted and fell into the river, going missing, while some survivors of the leak were taken to the hospital due to breathing difficulties.
POLICE LAUNCH INVESTIGATION
Rivers State Police Spokesperson Karbalo stated that the incident is being investigated in all its aspects, saying, "Investigations are ongoing to uncover the seriousness of the incident."
Efforts continue in the region to determine the exact cause of the incident and the details regarding the loss of life.