A delegation from the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has arrived in Wase Local Government Area to investigate the mining tragedy that claimed the lives of about 37 workers.

The victims reportedly died from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning at the Kampani Zurak mining site on Wednesday morning while working in an underground lead and zinc pit.

The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Engr. Farouk Yusuf Yabo, led a team of experts to the affected community on Thursday evening.

The delegation was received by Plateau State officials, including the Commissioner for Environment, Solid Minerals and Climate Change, Hon. Peter Lamba Gwom, and the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap.

The team proceeded to the disaster site to conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the incident, which occurred in a reportedly poorly ventilated tunnel operated by a mining firm.

The visit follows an earlier directive by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, ordering the immediate closure of the affected mining area to ensure safety and facilitate investigation.

Specialists in mining safety, environmental compliance, and regulatory enforcement have been tasked with determining both the immediate and underlying causes of the accident.

Preliminary findings are expected to examine issues such as inadequate ventilation and possible lapses in oversight of mining operations.

Meanwhile, the Plateau State Government has expressed condolences to the families of the victims and the affected community.

Authorities say the outcome of the investigation will guide measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.