Toxic Fumes Kill Dozens During Suspected Oil-Theft Attempt in Nigeria

At least 37 people may have died after inhaling toxic fumes during a suspected attempt to steal oil from a loading vessel in Nigeria’s Rivers State, according to a local advocacy group.

The organization said fumes escaped under high pressure as people attempted to siphon petroleum. Several others were reportedly missing.

Police confirmed that deaths occurred but had not verified the advocacy group’s total by publication time. An investigation is underway to establish the official number of victims and the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

Illegal oil tapping is widespread in the Niger Delta. It costs Nigeria billions in lost revenue and exposes communities to explosions, poisonous gases, and environmental contamination.

The latest incident illustrates how oil theft endangers far more than infrastructure and government income. People involved, nearby residents, and first responders can all be exposed to deadly substances without adequate protective equipment.

Authorities face renewed pressure to secure petroleum facilities while confronting the poverty and criminal networks that sustain illegal oil operations.