By Deborah Nnamdi
The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed a gas explosion at the Onitsha Head Bridge market, which claimed one life and left six others injured.
The Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed the incident in a statement issued on Saturday in Onitsha.
According to Ikenga, the explosion occurred on Friday at a plumbing materials market along Uga Street. Preliminary investigations suggest that the blast was triggered when a welding gas cylinder exploded due to excessive heat while a welder was working on a metal object.
He said police officers from the Onitsha Head Bridge Divisional Headquarters assisted in the rescue efforts, which were initially started by members of the public.
“Regrettably, the incident resulted in one fatality. The six injured victims are currently receiving treatment in the hospital, while the deceased has been taken to the mortuary,” he stated.
Ikenga added that the area has been secured by police operatives to prevent any potential exploitation of the situation by criminal elements.
He also noted that the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Mr. Ikioye Orutugu, expressed concern over the tragic incident. The commissioner underscored the importance of routine inspection and proper maintenance of gas cylinder equipment.
He further emphasized that gas cylinders must be stored properly and used strictly in line with manufacturers’ safety guidelines to prevent future accidents.
