The Greater Pioneer Operating Company (GPOC) will fence an open oil drainage pit in Unity State after a woman fell into the facility, the state Ministry of Information and Communications said.
The GPOC management committed to securing the Munga Pig Receiver during an inspection of the open drainage pit within the Unity Oil Field, led by Governor Joseph Monytuil Wejang on Tuesday.
Nyakenya Johannes Keah Ruai, the Minister of Information in Unity State, confirmed to Radio Tamazuj on Friday that the woman fell into the facility’s waste oil pit.
“GPOC management informed the government delegation that it will immediately undertake measures to secure the Unity Oil Field Receiver by constructing a strong metallic fence around the open pit,” the minister said. “The fencing will be designed to prevent unauthorized access and protect both people and livestock, including cattle, goats and other animals, from falling into the hazardous facility.”
The inspection was conducted to assess the condition of the facility, review existing safety measures and identify steps to prevent similar incidents, according to the ministry.
Governor Monytuil stressed that “the protection of human life, environmental safety and the well-being of communities living around the oil-producing areas must remain a priority,” the ministry said.
The statement did not specify what safety measures were in place around the pit before the incident, when the woman fell, or whether authorities are investigating the circumstances of the accident.
The government delegation later visited the woman at Bentiu State Hospital. The ministry said she was stable and remained under medical treatment.
The delegation included Information and Communications Minister Nyakenya Johannes, Health Minister Jal Puok, Rubkona County Commissioner Salaam Maluit, Division Four Commander Maj. Gen. Manyuat Manythol, Unity Oil Field Manager Eng. Mathor James, and GPOC operational staff.
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