The explosion occurred around 1 PM, reportedly during routine work by the vulcaniser, Mohammed, who specializes in heavy-duty vehicle tires.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the gas pump cylinder used for inflating tires exploded, killing Haji, one of his apprentices, at the scene. Mohammed, his son, and another apprentice sustained critical injuries and were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Eyewitnesses described the impact of the explosion, which also destroyed the workshop and damaged the fence of an adjoining residential building.
Usman Mohammed, a local resident, recounted the panic that ensued following the loud blast, noting that the deceased apprentice had been buried at the Kpakungu cemetery in accordance with Islamic rites.
The Niger State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement by its spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun. “On December 25, 2024, at about 1:30 PM, it was reported at Kpakungu Division that a gas pump cylinder used by a vulcaniser exploded.
“Unfortunately, the vulcaniser and two of his apprentices sustained serious injuries. One apprentice later died, while others are responding to treatment,” he said.
Gas Cylinder Explosion Niger
The tragic incident has heightened concerns about safety measures in workshops handling pressurized equipment, with many calling for stricter regulations to prevent such occurrences in the future.
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