The Police in Kano state North West Nigeria has confirmed the dead of five people following deadly explosion that rocked the Yongxing Steel Company along Ring Road in Mariri Quarters of the Northern commercial city.
It however said, it commenced a comprehensive investigation into the explosion with a view to unravel causes.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, DSP Hussaini Abdullahi, the incident occurred when a truck laden with scrap materials from Damaturu, Yobe State, was being offloaded at the company’s premises.
The explosion, believed to have originated from the truck which caused widespread panic and chaos within the vicinity.
“Upon receiving a distress call from the company’s Marketing Manager, Mr. Ibrahim Udazu, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, PhD, led an immediate response team to the scene.”
The team included personnel from the Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit, as well as experts in Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) hazards.
“The area was swiftly cordoned off to prevent further casualties and to allow for professional handling of the situation. Seven suspicious explosive devices were recovered from the scene without any additional injuries” the police confirmed.
Fifteen people sustained various degrees of injury and were rushed to Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital for treatment.
“Tragically, five of them succumbed to their injuries while receiving medical care. The remaining victims are reportedly in stable condition.”
The Commissioner has ordered a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion and any potential criminal elements involved.
He also urged the public to remain calm, maintain vigilance, and cooperate with security operatives.
He urged residents with any information or who observe suspicious activities to contact the police via the following emergency lines: 08032419754, 08123821575, or 09029292926.
The police reiterated their commitment to ensuring public safety and uncovering the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
Olusola Akintonde