A gasoline tanker exploded on Tuesday in north-central Nigeria, resulting in the deaths of at least 31 people, according to police.

The incident took place in the Bida area of Niger State after the tanker overturned. As residents gathered to collect the leaking fuel, the vehicle exploded, police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun said. Seventeen others sustained injuries and were taken to local hospitals for treatment.

In recent times, Niger State has experienced a growing number of accidents involving large trucks. Experts point to deteriorating roads and a lack of rail infrastructure as contributing factors. The state plays a key role in transporting goods between Nigeria’s northern and southern regions.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the identity of the truck driver and owner, as well as the cause of the crash.

Niger State Governor Umaru Bago expressed sorrow over the tragedy and criticized the ongoing practice of collecting spilled fuel from crash sites. “This is yet another devastating and heartbreaking incident for our people and the state,” he stated.

A similar tragedy occurred in January, when at least 98 people died in Niger State while attempting to siphon gasoline from a wrecked tanker using a generator.

Fuel scavenging has become increasingly common in Nigeria due to soaring prices after the government eliminated fuel subsidies under President Bola Tinubu.