By Okeke Eunice
One person has been reported dead and several others injured in an explosion that shook Sapele metropolis in Delta State on Tuesday evening.
Honorable Fm learned on Wednesday that the incident took place around 6 PM at a dump site along Mission Road, where local scavengers usually collect scrap materials.
According to eyewitnesses, the explosion was caused by an improvised explosive device accidentally brought to the site by one of the scavengers.
One source informed our correspondent that the deceased, identified as a northerner, suffered severe injuries from the blast.
“Additionally, at least two others, including people living near the dump site, are said to have suffered serious injuries.
“They are currently undergoing medical treatment,” revealed a source who wished to remain anonymous.
The source also noted that “the explosion has left the community in shock and mourning.”
A senior police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity due to lack of authorization to speak to the press, expressed concern that “the blast may have been caused by a scavenger unknowingly handling a dangerous item.”
“It’s possible they mistook it for scrap metal. Our initial suspicion is that it could have been a gas or fire extinguisher cylinder,” the officer added, indicating that further information would emerge as the investigation progresses.
Our correspondent has learned that local authorities are currently looking into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
Community leaders voiced their concerns regarding the safety of scavenging activities in Sapele and its surrounding areas following the explosion.
Chief Zacchaeus Edmoreda stated, “Many dump sites are operating without sufficient oversight.
With more than 15 dump sites throughout the town, the absence of safety measures poses a serious risk to scavengers.”
As of the time this report was filed, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, was unavailable for comments on the incident.