Illegal mining is a widespread issue in Nigeria, where operations lack both government oversight and safety protocols.

JOS PLATEAU, Nigeria: A gas explosion on Wednesday killed at least 38 lead miners who were down the pits at a mine in central Nigeria’s Plateau state, local sources told AFP.…

The tragedy is believed to have happened just before sunrise as the workers neared the end of their shift.

Illegal mining is a widespread issue in Nigeria, where operations lack both government oversight and safety protocols.