Police cordon off blast scene in Owerri, deploy bomb disposal experts as authorities probe the cause of the explosion that claimed two lives and reassure residents there is no threat to public safety.
By Onyeka Ntibundu – June 26, 2026
OWERRI, Imo State – Two suspected scrap metal scavengers have lost their lives following a late-night explosion that shook parts of Owerri, the Imo State capital, prompting a major security response and an ongoing forensic investigation by the Imo State Police Command.
The blast, which occurred on Thursday night along Old Nekede Road in Owerri West Local Government Area, sent shockwaves through the neighbourhood and raised concerns among residents over the source of the explosion.
Police authorities have since secured the area, deployed explosive experts and commenced a comprehensive investigation to determine what triggered the deadly incident.
Explosion Rocks Old Nekede Road
According to the Imo State Police Command, the explosion occurred at approximately 9:15 p.m. inside a large drainage channel located at No. 1 Old Nekede Road, directly opposite the Lakeside Hotel.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, police officers and personnel from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit responded immediately after receiving distress reports.
The affected area was promptly cordoned off while bomb disposal specialists carried out a detailed sweep to eliminate any further threat.
Following the operation, the police declared the scene safe for residents and motorists.
Victims Identified as Suspected Scrap Metal Scavengers
Preliminary investigations indicate that the victims were inside the drainage channel at the time of the explosion.
The deceased were identified as:
- Hyginus Akalonu, 32, from Umulumu in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.
- Victor Egwu, 22, from Agba in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
According to police findings, both men are suspected to have been engaged in scrap metal scavenging before the explosion occurred.
The victims reportedly sustained severe burns and multiple traumatic injuries.
Emergency responders evacuated them to the Federal University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Owerri, where medical personnel confirmed both dead while receiving treatment.
EOD Unit Begins Forensic Investigation
Although the exact cause of the explosion remains unknown, the police said specialists from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit have begun a comprehensive forensic investigation.
Investigators are expected to examine the nature of the explosive material, establish how it found its way into the drainage system and determine whether the incident resulted from accidental handling of explosive remnants, improperly discarded hazardous materials or other circumstances.
Authorities have not ruled out any possibility as investigations continue.
The police emphasized that further information would be released once forensic findings become available.
Growing Safety Concerns Around Scrap Metal Scavenging
The tragedy has once again drawn attention to the dangers associated with informal scrap metal scavenging in Nigeria.
Security experts have repeatedly warned that scavengers unknowingly come into contact with unexploded ordnance, military-grade explosives, industrial chemicals and other hazardous materials while searching for recyclable metals.
Several fatal incidents involving explosions have been recorded across different parts of the country in recent years after explosive devices were allegedly mistaken for scrap metal.
The latest incident is expected to renew calls for stricter regulation of the scrap metal trade, improved public awareness and better disposal of explosive materials.
Police Reassure Residents
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, CP Audu Garba Bosso, assured residents that the situation had been fully brought under control.
He emphasized that there was no cause for panic, adding that security agencies remain vigilant and committed to protecting lives and property across the state.
The Commissioner urged members of the public to remain alert and immediately report any suspicious objects, abandoned packages or unusual activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency communication channels.
He also appealed to residents to avoid handling unidentified metallic objects or suspected explosive materials and instead allow trained security personnel to manage such situations.
Investigation Continues
As investigators work to establish the precise cause of the deadly explosion, residents of Owerri continue to await answers regarding what triggered the blast inside the drainage channel.
The outcome of the police investigation is expected to determine whether the incident was an isolated accident or indicative of a broader public safety concern requiring additional preventive measures.
Authorities have assured the public that updates will be provided as investigations progress.
The fatal explosion on Old Nekede Road underscores the continuing risks posed by unidentified explosive materials and the hazards associated with informal scrap metal scavenging.
While police have restored calm and declared the area safe, the incident highlights the need for stronger public awareness, improved regulation of scrap metal activities and comprehensive investigations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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