Woman Killed, Five Others Injured As Landmine Explodes In Imo Market

An explosion at a local market in Imo State has left one woman dead and five others injured.

The incident happened around 2:40 p.m. on Tuesday at Eke Ubaheze Market Square in Awo-Idemili, Orsu Local Government Area.

The victim, identified as Mrs. Ngozi Umeh from Ubaheze village, reportedly stepped on a landmine while trading was in progress.

Some locals claimed that two peopl died in the blast, but police confirmed only one fatality.

Imo State Police spokesperson, Henry Okoye said the landmine was planted by suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

Okoye explained that Mrs. Umeh was taken to the hospital but didn’t survive, while the five others who were injured are currently receiving medical care at an undisclosed hospital.

Following the explosion, the state’s Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, ordered officers from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit to inspect the area.

Okoye said the team cleared the market of any other explosive devices and declared it safe, noting that business activities have since resumed, but under tighter security.

He said, “Preliminary investigation revealed that the explosion occurred when Ngozi Umeh ‘F’, a middle-aged woman from Ubaheze village, stepped on a landmine suspected to have been planted by IPOB/ESN terrorist.

“She was critically injured and later confirmed dead at the hospital, while five others sustained varying degrees of injuries and are receiving medical attention.

“Upon receipt of the distress call, the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, Aboki Danjuma, swiftly deployed operatives of the command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, tactical teams, and personnel from Orsu and Orlu Divisions to cordon off the area, evacuate victims, and sweep the market vicinity for any other planted IEDs.

“The area has since been declared safe, and normal activities have resumed under enhanced security surveillance.”

Commissioner Danjuma has expressed his condolences to Mrs. Umeh’s family and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

He also vowed that the police would continue to go after those threatening peace in Orsu and across the state.

Residents have been urged to report any suspicious movements, items, or individuals to the police, either at the nearest station or by calling the emergency line: 08034773600.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department has been directed to launch a thorough investigation to identify and arrest those responsible.

KanyiDaily also reported how a gas cylinder explosion at Onitsha Bridge Head Market in Anambra State left one person dead and six others injured.