Police Confirm Explosion in Imo: One Dead, Two Injured

The Imo State Police Command has confirmed the death of a suspected scrap scavenger following an explosion in Obinwanne community, Umuaka, Njaba Local Government Area.

Police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, said in a statement that the incident occurred around 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday when an explosive device carried by the victim, identified as Chinweroke Mmadu, detonated.

According to Okoye, two passersby sustained injuries in the blast. Officers from the Njaba divisional headquarters quickly responded to a distress call, while the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit swept the area and declared it safe.

“It was confirmed that the blast was caused by an explosive device carried by Mr. Chinweroke Mmadu, which detonated prematurely, leading to fatal injuries that later claimed his life,” the statement read.

Investigations are ongoing to determine Mmadu’s motive and any possible affiliations.

Imo Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, expressed sympathy to the injured victims and appealed to residents to remain calm and security conscious.

“Members of the public are strongly advised to report any suspicious item or object to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency lines for prompt action,” he urged.

Meanwhile, a local resident who spoke to newsmen on condition of anonymity said Mmadu was known in the community as a scrap scavenger.