The Police Command in Anambra has confirmed a gas explosion at the Onitsha Head Bridge market that claimed one life, leaving six others injured.
The command’s spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the development in a statement on Saturday in Onitsha.
The cylinder reportedly exploded due to exposure to excessive heat, causing panic and severe injuries to nearby individuals.
Don’t miss out on any real-time information. Join our WhatsApp group to stay updated.
..
Police operatives from the Onitsha Head Bridge Divisional Headquarters, who arrived at the scene, joined hands with good-spirited individuals to rescue six victims.
The injured were immediately taken to a hospital for treatment, while the deceased was deposited in a morgue.
“Officers have since secured the area to prevent looting or other criminal activities.
“Further to this, the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, concerned about the unfortunate incident has provided some safety tips to prevent such from reoccurring.
The tips include regular inspection and maintenance of the gas cylinder equipment, ensuring that the gas cylinders are stored securely and that the equipment is used according to the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines.”
In a related development, at least five persons were injured on Friday following an explosion at the cooking gas section of the Nobpet fuelling station, opposite the Air Force junction in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The fire, which gutted the entire gas section, also spread to destroy over eight vehicles parked near the neighbouring Ebonyi State Transport Corporation office.
Eyewitnesses said it took a joint effort by the Rivers State Fire Service and the Nigerian Air Force Fire Service to bring the blaze under control.
One of the victims, Emmanuel Ninyaegwu, a commercial driver whose 18-seater bus was destroyed in the fire, also sustained an injury to his ear.
He said that he and his pregnant wife narrowly escaped the blast.
“I was getting ready to load my vehicle (from Port Harcourt to Ebonyi State). This is where we stay. As I was opening my car boot, I heard the sound of fire.
Don’t miss out on any real-time information. Join our WhatsApp group to stay updated.
..
“I fell down, got up, and ran just before it blew. It damaged my vehicle. Some people got injured, including me. Nobody died,” Ninyaegwu said.
He added, “Some people who got injured have been taken to the hospital. There was an ambulance that came in from the Air Force. They treated some people, but they took some to the hospital.