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Two suspected scrap metal scavengers have died following an explosion occurred beneath a large drainage channel along Nekede old road in Owerri west LGA of Imo state.
Henry Okoye, police spokesperson in Imo, said in a statement on Friday that the incident occurred at about 9:15pm on Thursday.
Okoye identified the victims as Hyginus Akalonu, 32, from Umulumu in Ehime Mbano LGA of Imo state, and Victor Egwu, 22, from Agba Ishielu in Ebonyi state.
He said operatives swiftly responded after receiving reports of the explosion, cordoned off the area and deployed the command’s explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) unit to secure and thoroughly sweep the scene.
He said the area has since been declared safe, adding that the two victims were inside the drainage channel when the explosion occurred.
“They sustained severe burn injuries during the incident and were promptly evacuated to the Federal University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Owerri, where they were confirmed dead while receiving treatment,” the statement reads.
“The Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit has commenced a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the explosion. Further updates will be communicated as the investigation progresses.
Okoye urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious objects or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines.
