12 Dead, 38 Injured in Cross River Tanker Explosion

On Wednesday, a petrol tanker explosion in Ogoja Local Government Area, Cross River State, led to the tragic deaths of 12 individuals, with 38 others suffering varying degrees of injury. The Cross River State Police Command confirmed these details through their Public Relations Officer, Eitokpah Sundai, in a telephone conversation.

Following the explosion, which was ignited during a transloading operation near a river, the police promptly mobilized a patrol team to secure the area and manage traffic. Efforts were made to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to rescue trapped victims and evacuate the injured to the general hospital in Ogoja for medical attention.

Additionally, the situation was reinforced to ensure public safety and prevent further escalation. The deceased, including members of the Hausa Muslim community, were released to their families for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.

An investigation is ongoing to ascertain the immediate causes of the explosion, particularly concerning the transloading process.