At least 37 people are reported dead after an alleged attempt to steal crude oil in Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta.
The deaths were reported by the Youth and Advocacy Centre, a Nigerian environmental organisation.
Police have confirmed that people died in the incident but have not confirmed the reported death toll. Investigations are continuing.
Nigeria oil theft incident leaves dozens feared dead
The incident happened overnight on Thursday in Okrika, Rivers State, in southern Nigeria.
According to the environmental group, a vessel was loading oil from Indorama Eleme Petrochemical through the Port Harcourt Refinery when people allegedly attempted to siphon crude into boats from an illegal tapping point.
The group said most of those reported dead were believed to have inhaled hazardous fumes.
Other people were also reported missing and may have fallen into the water.
Police investigate deaths
Rivers State police confirmed fatalities but said the circumstances were still under investigation.
Police spokesperson Blessing Agbabe said the victims were allegedly attempting to steal crude oil.
However, Nigeria’s Security and Civil Defence Corps said casualty figures circulating publicly remained unverified. Security agencies are working to establish the details.
Oil theft remains major problem in Nigeria
Oil theft has long been a major challenge in the Niger Delta.
Illegal tapping can cause oil leaks and environmental damage, while the Nigerian government estimates that crude theft costs the country billions of dollars each year.
If the reported death toll is confirmed, the incident would be the deadliest accident linked to attempted oil theft since at least October 2023, according to the source report.