One person has been confirmed dead and several others injured following an explosion that shook Sapele metropolis in Delta State on Tuesday evening.
According to reports from PUNCH Metro, the explosion occurred around 6 PM at a dumpsite along Mission Road, a common area for scavengers to store scrap materials. Eyewitnesses indicated that the blast originated from an improvised explosive device that one of the scavengers had inadvertently brought to the site.
An eyewitness described the scene, stating, “The individual killed had his body severely impacted by the blast.” At least two other individuals, including nearby residents, reportedly sustained critical injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment, as noted by a source who wished to remain anonymous. “The explosion has left the area in shock and mourning,” the source added.
A senior police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on addressing the media, suggested that the explosion 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 officer stated, noting that further details would emerge as the investigation unfolds.
Local authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. Attempts to reach the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, for comments were unsuccessful at the time of this report.
