The residents were scooping fuel from the overturned tanker when the explosion occurred, sparking a massive inferno that killed 94 people on the spot – Police
Admin I Wednesday, October 16, 2024
DUTSE, Jigawa – Dozens of local residents of Majia town in Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State have been burnt to death, following the explosion of petrol laden tanker in the state.
According to eye witnesses, over 90 people were killed, while scores of others were injured, when the tanker with registration number KMC 6412 F driven by one Yusuf Mohammad exploded in the event that took place after it overturned in motion.
The incident took place on Tuesday, around 11 pm, when the vehicle heading to Nuguru Yobe State from Kano lost control and overturned, while dodging potholes, spilling content on the surrounding areas.
We were told that local residents came out and started scooping fuel. Eye witnesses say the containers deployed in the scooping process ignited, causing the tanker to explode, leading to the death of dozens.
Speaking on the incident, in Dutse, DSP Lawan Shiisu Adam, the Police Public Relations Officer in Jigawa, said the injured had been taken to Ringim General Hospital for medical attention.
“The residents were scooping fuel from the overturned tanker when the explosion occurred, sparking a massive inferno that killed 94 people on the spot.
“The incident left another 50 people severely injured, who were then rushed to Ringim and Hadejia General Hospitals for treatment,” he said.
“The state’s commissioner of police, A.T Abdullahi, condoles with the people of Majia town and Jigawa in general for the great loss. Avoid the scene of any petrol tanker accident as it always results in death by fire,” the CP said.