A tanker exploded on the Obiri-Ikwerre Flyover along the East-West Road in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital with three people feared dead.
The incident, which occurred around 9:30 am on Tuesday, involved a tanker believed to be carrying Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). The tanker overturned and exploded while attempting to navigate the roundabout.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko confirming the incident in a telephone conversation said the victims were burnt beyond recognition when the tanker fell on the vehicle they were commuting in. “Yes, I can confirm that two persons died in the tanker fire. Myself and the Commissioner of Police are on the ground as I speak to you,” she said.
“The fire has been put out but the area is still dangerous because the gas is still leaking. So motorists are advised to take alternative routes to avoid any further casualty.”
The explosion’s impact was felt kilometers away, with some residents reporting smashed windows and others feeling the vibrations.
At the time of reporting, firefighters were working to extinguish the blaze, while a crowd of onlookers and a heavy security presence were observed at the scene.
However, there was some drama when a suspected scavenger attempted to steal parts of the truck. The crowd apprehended him and handed him over to the police.
