The Kano State Police Command has confirmed the deaths of five persons following a devastating explosion involving military-grade ordnance in the state.
The tragic incident occurred on Saturday at a major metal scrap collection site situated along the Eastern Bypass in Kano. The blast sparked widespread panic among residents and workers in the area, prompting an immediate response from emergency services and security agencies.
Initial investigations by the police revealed that the vehicle involved in the explosion was coming from Yobe State before the tragic occurrence.
Speaking on the development, the Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, told journalists that he received a distress call about the explosion and immediately proceeded to the scene.
“I received a call about the incident that had happened. When I arrived, I found that it was a suspected explosion – possibly an EOD on a military mortar bomb vehicle that exploded,” he said.
Bakori disclosed that the explosion affected a total of fifteen individuals, some of whom were severely injured and rushed to a nearby medical facility. “Fifteen people were affected and rushed to Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital. I rushed to the place and found out that five died and 10 are receiving treatment,” the police chief confirmed.
Providing further clarification, the Commissioner said that early findings suggest that the explosive material was being transported by a trailer originating from Yobe State. However, details regarding the occupants of the vehicle remain sketchy.
“The case is under investigation, but from the information I got, the vehicle came from Yobe state.
“Preliminary findings suggest the explosive material was being transported by a trailer, but it remains unclear whether the vehicle was carrying military personnel or contractors,” Ibrahim stated.
Security operatives have since cordoned off the area, while efforts are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the explosion.
