An explosion has killed at least one person and left several others injured in Sapele, Delta State, on Tuesday evening.
Various reports indicated that the incident occurred around a metal scrap dumpsite along Mission Road in the headquarters of Sapele Local Government Area.
A local blogger in the town, Real Sapele Amebo reported that the victim was a scrap dealer (aka iron condemn) in that part of the city, which is populated by settlers of Northern origin, who deal in scrap metals
Eyewitnesses report that the explosion likely stemmed from an improvised Explosive Device (IED) inadvertently brought to the site by one of the scavengers.
According to sources close to the scene, the individual killed was identified as one of the scavengers with his body severely impacted by the blast.
“At least two others sustained critical injuries, including individuals residing near the dumpsite. They are currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital,” a source said.
A senior police officer, speaking anonymously, suggested that the blast may have been triggered by a scavenger unknowingly handling a hazardous item.
“It’s possible they mistook it for scrap metal. Our initial suspicion is that it might have been a gas or fire extinguisher cylinder,” the policeman said.
The officer emphasised that more details would come to light as the investigation unfolds.
Local authorities are also investigating the circumstances leading to the tragic incident.
