Tragedy Strikes As Tanker Explosion Claims Multiple Lives In Imo State

Eko Hot Blog reports that a devastating incident unfolded in the forest of Obitti, Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State, as a tanker suspected to be used by oil bunkerers exploded, leaving numerous individuals burned beyond recognition.

The tragic event occurred on Tuesday at the Ndorama Pipeline in the Obitti Rubber Estate.

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According to reports, the tanker was allegedly deployed by vandals engaged in illegal bunkering activities, and the perpetrators reportedly dug deep into the ground to locate the pipeline, tapping into it to siphon oil into the tanker concealed within the bush. Unfortunately, their illicit operation took a tragic turn as the tanker exploded, resulting in fatal consequences.

An eyewitness captured the aftermath in a viral video on social media, providing a harrowing account of the incident.

“Vandals came to vandalise the pipeline right of way. They drove to the place in a tanker suspected to be used for illegal bunkering. They dug deep into the ground, located the pipeline, and from there they tapped and emptied the oil into a tanker parked inside the bush,” the eyewitness recounted. “They used long hoses and connected them to the pipe, but unfortunately, luck ran out of them. It exploded and killed many of them. The tanker is still burning.”

Confirming the tragic incident, the Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, disclosed that the command had initiated an investigation to ascertain the immediate cause of the explosion and apprehend those involved. “Our team has moved to the scene to unravel the cause of the fire,” Okoye stated.

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As of now, the authorities have not released specific details regarding the number of casualties resulting from the explosion, as the investigation remains ongoing, and further information will be provided as it becomes available.

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