An illegal oil bunkering operation in the oil-bearing Obitti Community of Imo State took a devastating turn as a deep hole dug by hoodlums, coupled with a makeshift pipeline to a hired tanker, led to a catastrophic explosion.
The incident, reportedly sparked by a gun duel between the bunkers and suspected vandals who emerged from the nearby bush, resulted in multiple casualties, significant property damage, and the destruction of farmland estimated at several million naira. Visiting the scene, our correspondent witnessed the heart-wrenching aftermath, with charred bodies strewn across the area, prompting wails and lamentations from grieving relatives.
Fueled by anxiety, some residents fled their homes, fearing possible interrogation by security agencies. The Imo State Police Command, confirming the tragedy, disclosed that Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma has initiated a high-powered investigation team to uncover the incident's immediate cause and apprehend those responsible.
While the exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed, the community is left grappling with the aftermath of this devastating and illicit operation.
