At least 37 people have died in Nigeria's Okrika settlement after inhaling toxic fumes during an alleged incident of illegal pipeline siphoning, according to the community group Youth Emancipation and Advocacy Centre (YEAC). The victims reportedly died after inhaling what is locally known as "Indorama fuel," a form of refined petrol.
Nigerian security forces are investigating the incident, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has urged the public and media to rely on verified information as the investigation proceeds. The corps condemned illegal tapping and siphoning of petroleum products, warning that such activities pose significant risks to lives, the environment, and the national economy.
Campaigners have long blamed the practice of illegal oil siphoning for contributing to extensive environmental damage in the region. The Nigerian government has intensified operations against oil theft in recent years, with the navy increasing its patrols of the Niger Delta's waterways and coastal areas.
"Their days are numbered, and if we catch you, of course, we'll ensure that you face the law," warned Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, director of naval information, in an interview with Nigerian broadcaster Channels TV. While the navy has bolstered maritime security, other military and security agencies are conducting operations against oil thieves who often conceal themselves within the area's dense mangrove forests.
Nigeria is seeking to boost its oil production, which has been hampered for years by theft, insecurity, and underinvestment. The nation aims to reach a production level of approximately three million barrels per day by 2030, relying on improved security measures and reforms to attract new investment.