Explosion claims two lives in Imo, police launch investigation
Explosion in Owerri West LGA Claims Two Lives
OWERRI, Imo State — An explosion in a drainage channel at No.1 Old Nekede Road, near Lakeside Hotel, resulted in the deaths of two individuals, believed to be scavengers.
The Imo State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement issued by spokesperson Henry Okoye, who noted that an investigation has been initiated to determine the cause of the explosion.
Responding to reports from local residents, police dispatched a team to secure the area and conducted a thorough sweep with assistance from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit.
Preliminary investigations identified the victims as Hyginus Akalonu, 32, from Umulumu in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, and Victor Egwu, 22, from Agba in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. Both victims suffered severe burns and were transported to the Federal University of Technology Teaching Hospital in Owerri, where they were pronounced dead during treatment.
The EOD Unit is actively working to uncover the specifics surrounding the explosion. Okoye indicated that further updates would be released as the investigation continues.
In a related statement, Imo State Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso, reassured the public of the Command’s commitment to handling the situation. He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects or activities to local authorities or through the Command’s emergency lines.
