Nigerians die after inhaling toxic fumes during alleged pipeline theft, community group says

What the report says

An environmental advocacy group in Nigeria’s oil-producing Rivers State says at least 37 people have died after inhaling toxic fumes during an alleged attempt to steal petrol from a pipeline. The Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC) said the incident happened at Okari Jetty in Okrika, where more than 100 people reportedly arrived in small boats under cover of darkness to collect refined fuel.

BBC Africa reported that police said they were still investigating the number of people affected and had not confirmed a final death toll. Local accounts cited by the report said some people may have fallen into the Bonny River, while others were taken to hospital. The authorities and emergency services were still working to establish what happened in the early hours of Thursday.

Pipeline theft has long been a serious problem in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, where oil and gas infrastructure is frequently targeted by criminal groups that siphon fuel for sale on the black market or for illegal refining. The Security and Civil Defence Corps condemned the practice and warned that it threatens lives, the environment and the economy.

The episode comes as Nigeria continues efforts to curb oil theft and raise production through tighter security and wider reforms. Officials have said they are increasing pressure on thieves operating in the region, which remains central to the country’s energy industry.