Two suspected scrap metal scavengers have lost their lives following a late-night explosion along Old Nekede Road in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State.
The incident, which occurred at about 9:15 p.m. on Thursday, reportedly took place inside a large drainage channel located at No. 1 Old Nekede Road, directly opposite the Lakeside Hotel.
Confirming the development in a statement on Friday, the spokesperson of the Imo State Police Command, DSP Henry Okoye, disclosed that police operatives swiftly responded to the scene alongside the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit.
According to him, the area was immediately cordoned off and thoroughly searched by the bomb squad, after which it was declared safe for public movement.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the victims were inside the drainage channel at the time of the explosion.
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They were identified as 32-year-old Hyginus Akalonu, a native of Umulumu in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, and 22-year-old Victor Egwu from Agba in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The police noted that both victims sustained severe burn injuries and were rushed to the Federal University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Owerri, where they were later confirmed dead while receiving treatment.
“The Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit has commenced a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact cause and circumstances surrounding the explosion,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, CP Audu Garba Bosso, has assured residents that the situation is under control and there is no cause for panic.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects or activities to the nearest police station or through designated emergency lines.
Further updates are expected as investigations continue.
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