SUSPECTED GAS EXPOSURE CLAIMS 37 LIVES IN ZURAK COMMUNITY, POLICE DEPLOY TEAMS FOR INVESTIGATION
On the morning of February 18, 2026, a tragic incident occurred in Kampani Zurak Community, located in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, when a suspected gas exposure resulted in the deaths of 37 individuals. An additional 26 people have been hospitalized due to suffocation from inhaling toxic gases.
The Plateau State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police CP Bassey Ewah, immediately mobilized officers to the site. Upon receiving the distress call at approximately 6:00 AM, the CP instructed the Area Commander of Langtang, the Commander of the 66PMF in Shendam, and Divisional Police Officers from the Wase and Bashar divisions to urgently respond to the scene.
Upon arrival, the area was cordoned off, and rescue operations commenced. Preliminary investigations indicated that the miners in the area were affected by a sudden discharge of Lead Oxide, Sulphur, and Carbon Monoxide gases. These gases, known for their toxicity, caused suffocation in the confined, poorly ventilated environment.
The bodies of the deceased have been released to their families for burial in accordance with local religious customs. In a bid to prevent further occurrences, CP Bassey has deployed the Assistant Commissioners of Police (DOPS), the State CID, and the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Unit, commonly known as the “Anti Bomb Squad,” to investigate the exact cause of the gas discharge. While no signs of an explosion or explosive components were found at the scene, samples of rock, soil, and minerals have been collected for further analysis.
In his statement, CP Bassey extended his condolences to the families of the victims and assured the public of continued efforts to combat illegal mining activities. He urged residents to refrain from such activities, which pose serious risks to both lives and the environment.
Plateau citizens are also encouraged to report any suspicious activity to local police stations or security agencies. The Plateau State Police Command has set up emergency contact numbers for public assistance: