The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed a tragic gas explosion at the Onitsha Head Bridge Market, which claimed one life and left six others injured.
The Command’s Spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed the incident in a statement on Saturday in Onitsha, according to reports.
Ikenga said the explosion occurred on Friday at the plumbing section of the market, located along Uga Street.
According to him, preliminary investigations indicated that a welding gas cylinder exploded while a welder was working on metal, allegedly due to exposure to excessive heat.
“The police operatives attached to the Onitsha Head Bridge Divisional Police Headquarters, on May 16, supported the rescue efforts of good-spirited individuals in evacuating the six victims of the gas cylinder explosion,” Ikenga said.
“Unfortunately, one person lost his life in the incident. The six injured victims are currently receiving treatment in the hospital, while the deceased has been deposited in a morgue.”
He added that police operatives have since secured the area to prevent hoodlums from exploiting the incident to commit crimes.
The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, expressed concern over the unfortunate incident. He emphasized the importance of regular inspection and maintenance of gas cylinders and related equipment.
He further stressed the need for users to store gas cylinders safely and operate them strictly according to the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines to avert future tragedies.
