By Gabriella Ogbu
The Rivers State Police Command has launched a full investigation into a gas explosion that injured 18 people this occurred in the Oroazi community of Port Harcourt on Sunday evening.
The explosion occurred at a gas refilling shop, causing extensive damage to surrounding buildings.
This incident is part of an alarming series of gas-related explosions and Improvised Explosive Device (IED), events reported in the state since 2024.
SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police, confirmed the details during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday.
She explained that the explosion was triggered by a welder who was repairing a refrigerator.
“The technician was using a gas cylinder to weld while also attempting to refill the refrigerator with gas, which led to the explosion,” Iringe-Koko explained.
She further reported that 18 individuals, including the technician, suffered injuries of varying severity.
Fortunately, no fatalities were recorded. The injured victims, who sustained burns, were quickly taken to a nearby hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.
Iringe-Koko also assured the public that a full investigation into the cause of the explosion is underway, and the police will share the findings once the inquiry is completed.
An eyewitness, Tamuno, described the explosion as catastrophic, noting that among the injured were a pregnant woman, four children, and a couple.
“The explosion set off a chain reaction, causing additional gas cylinders in the shop to ignite.
“Most of the victims were residents and passersby who happened to be close to the shop at the time,” Tamuno said.
He added that many of the injured were rushed to the Rivers State Teaching Hospital in Port Harcourt and expressed hope for their swift recovery.
