(Mining Site. Photo by Arise News)
More than 20 people are feared dead after a mining pit collapsed in Mayo Kam village in Taraba State on Thursday afternoon.
The pit gave way while miners were working, trapping several underground.
A community resident, Kenneth Ayila, said the exact death toll had not been confirmed, but more than 20 people were believed killed.
Most of the victims were from Mayo Kam community, according to Mallam Usman Bello, a community leader.
He said only a few miners from neighbouring communities usually work at the site.
Bello said the community was in shock and mourning over the incident, describing it as a very sad day.
Authorities had not confirmed the exact number of casualties as of press time.
The Taraba State Police spokesperson, Victor Msherizar, said the command had yet to receive an official report from police in Bali.
The collapse has raised fresh concerns about safety at mining sites in Taraba State, where miners often work without adequate safety measures.
