Thirty-seven people suspected of oil theft have died in Rivers State. The incident occurred in Okrika Local Government Area.
The deaths happened on Thursday. It is believed they inhaled a petroleum product, possibly crude oil.
Youths were allegedly attempting to load the product into a vessel. This was from an illegal tapping point at a jetty.
The exact cause of death is under investigation by authorities.
This incident highlights the dangers associated with illegal oil bunkering operations.
Further details will be provided as they become available from official sources.