37 oil thieves die after inhaling fumes in Rivers

At least 37 people suspected of attempting to siphon petroleum products from a pipeline have reportedly died in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, September 3, when more than 100 people, mostly youths from Okrika and surrounding communities, reportedly gathered around Okari Jetty to collect petroleum products from a pipeline.

The pipeline is said to transport products from the Indorama Eleme Petrochemical facility through the Port Harcourt Refinery to vessels that load petroleum products for export.

Eyewitnesses said the group was transferring the product into boats when a strong smell suddenly spread across the area.

Several of those at the scene reportedly collapsed, with some falling into the river, while others who survived were taken to hospitals for treatment.

The survivors were said to be suffering from severe respiratory complications.

The exact substance inhaled by the victims has yet to be officially established.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, SP Blessing Agabe, said an investigation had commenced to determine what happened.

“The suspects reportedly died in the process of attempting to steal crude oil. However, no official complaint has been received in connection with the incident at this time. Investigation is ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and ascertain the facts,” Agabe said.

The police said the investigation would establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and determine the facts of the incident.