ONE person has been declared dead, while six were reported injured in a gas cylinder explosion at the plumbing market, along Uga Street, near Onitsha Bridge Head Market in Anambra State.
A statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, Anambra State Police Command, Awka, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, on Saturday, said the incident occurred on Friday, while a welder was working on metal with carbide.
“Police Operatives attached to the Onitsha Head Bridge Divisional Police Headquarters on the 16th of May 2025 complemented the rescue efforts by good-spirited individuals on the six victims of a gas cylinder explosion at a plumbing market, along Uga Street, which regrettably recorded one death.
“Preliminary information revealed that the welding gas cylinder exploded as the welder was working on a metal due to exposure to excess heat.”
Six victims rescued from the incident are currently receiving treatment in the hospital, while the deceased has been deposited in a morgue.
To this end, police said their operatives have taken steps to secure the area and prevent criminal-minded persons from taking advantage of the situation to commit crimes.
Further to this, the Commissioner of Police CP Ikioye Orutugu, concerned about the unfortunate incident, advised residents to imbibe regular inspection and maintenance of the gas cylinder equipment, ensuring that the gas cylinders are stored securely, and that the equipment is used according to the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines.
