Police launch probe after deadly Owerri blast

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Imo State Police Command has launched a full investigation after an explosion ripped through a large drainage channel opposite Lakeside Hotel on Old Nekede Road late Thursday, killing two men and prompting a sweep by the command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team.

The blast according to a statement obtained on Friday from the Imo Police Command occurred at about 9:15 p.m. on 25 June 2026 inside the drainage channel at No. 1 Old Nekede Road, Owerri West Local Government Area.

Officers who responded to the scene immediately cordoned off the area and deployed the EOD unit to secure and sweep the site; the unit later declared the scene safe.

Preliminary inquiries identified the deceased as scrap metal scavengers Hyginus Akalonu, 32, of Umulumu in Ehime Mbano LGA, Imo State, and Victor Egwu, 22, of Agba in Ishielu LGA, Ebonyi State.

Both sustained severe burn injuries and were evacuated to the Federal University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Owerri, where they were confirmed dead while receiving treatment.

“The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit has commenced a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the explosion,” the command said, adding that further updates will be provided as inquiries progress.

Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso, sought to reassure residents.

“The Command is fully on top of the situation, the area has been secured, and there is no cause for panic,” he said, urging Imolites to remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects or activities to the nearest police station or the command’s emergency lines.