Scores injured, vehicles and houses destroyed in Katsina gas explosion

Scores of people were injured, vehicles and buildings damaged when a truck conveying gas cylinders exploded in Magama community, Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State, 

It was gathered that the incident occurred on Friday, November 15, at a filling station ‘Walidan,’ where products suspected to be smuggled into the country from Niger Republic were kept. 

“The tragedy happened when a truck loaded with gas cylinders was parked at the filling station for days,” a resident of Magama, Aliyu Muhammad, said. 

“Seven vehicles were burnt, two houses, including the building which housed the filling station and one other house were damaged,” Muhammad said, adding that that many people sustained injuries

The spokesperson of the State Police Command, ASP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, confirmed the incident.

“Today, November 15th, 2024, at about 0845hrs, a loud explosion was heard by police operatives attached to Jibia Divisional Police Headquarters. Responding promptly, the DPO led operatives, in collaboration with the military, to the scene,” he said. 

“Upon arrival, operatives found a truck loaded with gas cylinders engulfed in flames at Tamal filling station along Kagadama – Magamar Jibia road, Jibia LGA. The joint team swiftly deployed preventive measures to protect lives and minimize property damage, successfully quenching the fire.” 

Aliyu said six vehicles were significantly affected by the fire incident, but fortunately, no lives were lost.

“The Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Police Command, CP Aliyu Abubakar Musa, has directed a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the explosion. Further developments will be communicated as the investigation proceeds,” Aliyu added.