An explosion in Sapele, Delta State, claimed the life of one person and left several others injured on Tuesday evening. The blast occurred around 6 pm at a dump site on Mission Road, where local scavengers typically gather scrap materials.
Eyewitnesses reported that the explosion was caused by an improvised explosive device accidentally brought to the site by a scavenger. The victim, identified as a northerner, was severely impacted by the blast.
Two others, including nearby residents, were critically injured and are currently receiving medical treatment. The incident has left the community in shock and mourning.
A senior police officer noted that the explosion may have been triggered by a scavenger unknowingly handling a dangerous object, possibly mistaking it for scrap. Authorities suspect the device may have been a gas or fire extinguisher cylinder, and investigations are ongoing.
Community leaders raised concerns about the safety of scavenging operations in the area. Chief Zacchaeus Edmoreda highlighted the risks posed by the numerous unregulated dump sites in Sapele, stressing the need for better oversight.
Local authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of the explosion.
