Dozens Killed After Inhaling Toxic Fumes During Pipeline Theft

At least 37 people are feared dead after allegedly inhaling toxic fumes while trying to steal fuel from an oil pipeline in Nigeria.

The deadly incident happened Thursday, Sept. 3, in Okrika, a community in Rivers State in the oil-rich Niger Delta.

According to the Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre, or YEAC-Nigeria, more than 100 people reportedly gathered at the site after a pipe was connected to an illegal tapping point on a pipeline.

The group said at least 37 people died after being exposed to fumes from refined fuel known locally as “Indorama fuel,” a form of Premium Motor Spirit, or gasoline.

Several others remain missing.

“Many are still missing, and some corpses have been seen floating on the river but have not yet been recovered,” YEAC-Nigeria said.

The victims are suspected of being involved in oil theft and were allegedly seen loading fuel into boats before the deadly exposure.

The pipeline reportedly carries petroleum products from the Indorama Eleme Petrochemical complex through the Port Harcourt Refinery to vessels used for export.

Gasoline fumes can be extremely dangerous because they contain toxic chemicals including benzene, toluene and xylene. Exposure can cause serious health problems, especially in enclosed or heavily contaminated areas.

Rivers State police spokesperson ASP Blessing Kaborlo Agabe said authorities are now investigating exactly what happened.

“An investigation is ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and ascertain the facts,” police said.

Okrika sits in the Niger Delta, one of the most important regions for Nigeria’s massive oil and gas industry.

The area has also struggled for years with illegal oil tapping, with thieves siphoning crude oil and refined fuel into boats and storage tanks before selling it on the black market or sending it to illegal refineries.

Nigeria’s military and navy have stepped up operations against oil theft in recent years as authorities try to protect pipelines and other energy infrastructure.

Following the latest incident, Nigerian naval official Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho issued a warning to people involved in the illegal trade.

“Their days are numbered, and if we catch you, of course, we’ll ensure that you face the law,” he said.

Authorities have not yet confirmed a final death toll, and the number could rise as search efforts continue for those still missing.