The Imo State police command says two suspected scrap metal scavengers have died following an explosion inside a drainage channel along Old Nekede Road in Owerri West Local Government Area of the state.

It said the incident occurred at about 9:15 p.m. on Thursday at a large drainage channel opposite Lakeside Hotel, prompting the immediate deployment of operatives and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit to the scene.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, in a statement, said the area was cordoned off and thoroughly searched before it was declared safe.

According to the statement, preliminary investigation showed that the victims, identified as 32-year-old Hyginus Akalonu of Umulumu in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of the state and Victor Egwu, 22, of Agba in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, were inside the drainage channel when the explosion occurred.

The police described the deceased as suspected scrap metal scavengers, adding that they sustained severe burns and were rushed to the Federal University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Owerri, where they were confirmed dead while receiving treatment.

“The Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit has commenced a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the explosion. Further updates will be communicated as the investigation progresses,” the statement read.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Audu Garba Bosso, reassured residents that the situation was under control, stressing that there was no cause for panic as the affected area had been secured.

He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious objects or activities to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency lines.

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