The Police Command in Anambra has confirmed a gas explosion at the Onitsha Head Bridge market that claimed one life, leaving six others injured.

The command’s spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the development in a statement on Saturday in Onitsha.

Ikenga explained that the explosion happened at a plumbing market along Uga Street on Friday.

According to him, preliminary information revealed that the welding gas cylinder exploded as the welder was working on a metal due to exposure to excess heat.

“The police operatives attached to the Onitsha Head Bridge Divisional Police Headquarters on May 16 complemented the rescue efforts by good-spirited individuals on the six victims of a gas cylinder explosion.

“The incident took place at a plumbing market along Uga Street, which regrettably recorded one death.

“The six rescued victims are currently receiving treatment in the hospital, while the deceased has been deposited in a mortuary,” he said.

He noted that the police operatives have taken steps to secure the area and prevent criminal-minded persons from taking advantage of the situation to commit crimes.

Ikenga said the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Ikioye Orutugu, was concerned about the unfortunate incident and emphasised the need for a regular inspection and maintenance of the gas cylinder equipment.

The commissioner stressed the need for gas cylinders to be stored securely and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines to forestall future occurrences.

The Ondo State Police Command has debunked reports that a police station in the Oka-Akoko area of the state was overrun by commercial motorcyclists.

In a statement issued in Akure by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Funmi Odunlami, the police clarified that no station was attacked and described the reports as baseless and aimed at creating unnecessary tension.

Odunlami explained the incident, saying, “On December 3, 2024, a young man was involved in a fatal motor accident along Epinmi Road and reported the incident at the Oka Police Division. The accident involved his vehicle and a motorcyclist.

“Officers from the division responded promptly and discovered that the motorcyclist had died at the scene, while the pillion passenger sustained injuries.

“The deceased’s body was taken to a morgue in Oka, and the injured individual was transported to the hospital for medical treatment.”

She added that a group of motorcyclists, who had witnessed the incident, accompanied the police to the station, demanding the release of the driver involved in the accident.

“The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) declined their request, explaining the need for proper legal processes to be followed. After a constructive dialogue, the motorcyclists dispersed peacefully”, she stated.

The police spokesperson emphasized that the reports of an attack on the station were false and called on residents to disregard them.

She assured the public of the command’s commitment to maintaining law and order, especially during the festive season.

“Under the leadership of CP Abayomi Peter Oladipo, the command remains dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of all residents.

“Adequate measures have been put in place to guarantee a peaceful and hitch-free festive season,” Odunlami concluded.

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has announced a prohibition on the use of firecrackers, popularly known as knockouts, ahead of the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the command’s spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, the Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, explained that the measure aimed to ensure the safety of lives and property during the festive period.

According to him, using firecrackers often causes unnecessary panic, poses fire risks, and could lead to other avoidable incidents.

Disu said, “This ban is implemented to ensure the safety of all residents and to protect lives and property throughout the festive season.

“The use of these items creates unwarranted fear and anxiety in the community. This ban is essential to maintaining peace and safety. Anyone found using or selling firecrackers will be arrested and prosecuted according to the law.”

The police urged community leaders and residents to support efforts to sensitize the public on the dangers of using firecrackers, adding that it was important for residents to adhere to the directive.

“Residents were also encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or violations of the ban through our emergency hotlines,” he added.

Disu, however, assured residents of the police’s commitment to maintaining law and order throughout the holiday season.