Tension: Explosion in Onitsha, many injured
– An explosion occured in Kara market in Onitsha
– Residents suspected the explosion to be caused by bomb although the police blamed it on fuel in a jerrycan
– 12 persons were injured although no death was recorded
An explosion suspected to be caused by a bomb occurred in Kara Market along Atani road, Ogbaru near Onitsha in Anambra state has left about 12 persons injured.
The settlement which was formerly a cattle market is occupied by artisans, labourers, onions and poultry dealers.
NAN reports that the police however claimed it was caused by fuel which was purchased and stored in a jerrycan for future use.
Ali Okechukwu who is the spokesperson of the Anambra state police confirmed the incident.
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“The explosion was not a bomb as being speculated by people. A jerrycan of petrol that was brought to the settlement exploded around the area and some people sustained various degrees of burns.
“They were taken to various hospitals and are currently receiving treatment. No death was recorded.”
He said the police had put the situation under check and warned citizens to stop panic buying fuel as this could cause serious d anger to lives.
Mr Sabo Mohammed who is the leader of the settlement however insisted it was caused by a bomb brought into a restaurant by an unknown person.
“An unidentified boy walked into a restaurant with three jerry cans demanding for food and left almost immediately without eating the food, leaving the jerrycans behind.
“Some minutes later, one of the jerrycans, exploded leaving many people injured.
“The victims had severe burns that you cannot even hold their skin to carry them to hospital.”
An eyewitness who also confirmed the incident said the victims were taken to different hospitals but said there was fear amongst the people.
“This has been a peaceful market until yesterday. We are now disorganised and afraid of what might happen next.”
Mrs Mariam Mohammed who was one of the victims said she was washing plates in the restaurant when the explosion took place.
“I was washing plates when suddenly I heard a loud noise and fire spreading everywhere. Substances from the fire poured on people eating and those standing near the restaurant. It was then that I realised I was affected too.”
Dr Joseph Evbomemen who is doctor at the hospital said Mrs Mohammed was responding well to treatment.
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“The patient is now stable unlike yesterday that she was disoriented. They brought in two patients; this woman and one other boy.
“The boy was badly injured, so we referred him to Borromew Hospital and started treating the woman. We had to remove the surface skin but she has improved.
“The explosion affected Mrs Mohammed’s limbs and skull.”
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