The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals, under the leadership of Attah John Onoja, have joined federal and Plateau State authorities in responding to the tragic mining disaster at Kampani-Zurak in Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, February 17, 2026, claimed the lives of over 37 miners, with several others undergoing medical treatment for injuries and exposure to toxic gases.
ACC Onoja, alongside federal and state delegations, visited the affected site to assess the situation, offer support to the bereaved families, and emphasize the urgent need to eradicate illegal mining operations nationwide. The visit followed the arrival of a federal team led by the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Hon. Henry Dele Alake, represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Engr. Faruk Yahaya Yabo FNSE. The delegation also included key directors and technical experts from the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals, alongside Plateau State officials.
During the visit, ACC Onoja underscored that the tragedy highlights the persistent risks posed by unregulated mining operations and stressed that the Mining Marshals would work closely with federal and state agencies to enforce compliance and enhance safety standards. “This incident is a stark reminder that illegal mining is not only a threat to economic stability but also a direct risk to human lives,” he said, calling for strict adherence to mining laws and regulations.
The Honourable Minister, speaking at the site, described the loss of more than 30 able-bodied members of a single community as deeply devastating. Preliminary investigations suggest the presence of toxic gases, including carbon monoxide and sulphite emissions, while laboratory confirmations are ongoing. He warned that license holders are legally responsible for ensuring the safety of workers and local communities within mining concessions.
Plateau State authorities also expressed their condolences and reinforced their commitment to mining safety. Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, represented by the Commissioner of Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap mni, emphasized the suspension of illegal mining activities to prevent further fatalities. Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development, Hon. Peter Kanang Gwom, highlighted ongoing efforts to formalize artisanal miners into cooperatives, provide training, distribute safety equipment, and facilitate access to micro-credit facilities.
ACC Onoja noted that the Mining Marshals are ready to collaborate with all relevant agencies to enforce the outcomes of ongoing investigations. He stressed the Corps’ determination to prevent similar disasters, improve operational oversight, and enhance the safety of mining communities nationwide.
Community leaders, including Hakimi Bashar Aliyu Adamu Idris, welcomed the government’s presence and support but highlighted the significant humanitarian impact, noting that many households have lost their primary breadwinners. They called for sustained interventions, including improved road networks, security presence, and stricter mining regulations.
ACC Onoja further announced plans to conduct targeted patrols, intelligence-driven inspections, and awareness campaigns in high-risk mining areas to eliminate illegal operations and ensure adherence to safety protocols. “Our mandate is clear: to protect lives and secure the nation’s mineral resources while preventing tragedies like Zurak from recurring,” he stated.
The visit concluded with a commitment from federal and state authorities, as well as the NSCDC Mining Marshals, to implement comprehensive safety measures, strengthen regulatory compliance, and promote sustainable mining practices across Plateau State and the country at large. Investigations into the precise cause of the disaster remain ongoing, and results will inform stricter enforcement and preventive strategies nationwide.
This collaborative response, led prominently by ACC Attah John Onoja, signals a proactive shift toward integrating security, governance, and community engagement to safeguard both human life and economic assets in Nigeria’s mining sector.