Two men lost their lives following an explosion inside a drainage channel at No. 1 Old Nekede Road, opposite Lakeside Hotel in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State.
The victims, identified as 32-year-old Hyginus Akalonu from Umulumu, Ehime Mbano LGA, and 22-year-old Victor Egwu from Agba, Ishielu LGA of Ebonyi State, were reportedly scavenging scrap metal when the blast occurred.
Both sustained severe burns and were rushed to the Federal University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Owerri, where they were confirmed dead.
Police spokesperson Henry Okoye said the Command immediately mobilized operatives to the scene, cordoned off the area, and deployed the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit to secure and sweep the site.
He confirmed that a comprehensive investigation has begun to determine the cause of the explosion.
Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, assured residents that the Command is fully in control of the situation.
He urged the public to remain vigilant and
