Authorities in Jigawa State are investigating the cause of a devastating explosion that resulted in a tragic loss of life, with police attributing the high death toll to illegal fuel scooping activities. The incident occurred on Monday morning in a remote area of the state, where several individuals were reportedly engaged in the dangerous practice of siphoning fuel from a damaged pipeline.According to local police, the explosion claimed the lives of at least 20 people, with many others suffering severe injuries. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as flames engulfed the area, leading to panic among those nearby. Rescue operations were launched promptly, but the extent of the injuries has strained local medical facilities.
“Illegal fuel scooping is a major issue in this region, and this incident underscores the grave risks involved,” stated Assistant Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Mohammed. “We urge the public to refrain from such hazardous activities, as they pose significant dangers not only to the scoopers but also to the surrounding communities.”
Emergency responders and police teams have cordoned off the area to prevent further incidents and are conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the explosion. Community leaders have expressed their condolences to the families affected and called for urgent action to address the underlying issues contributing to illegal fuel activities in the region.
Local authorities are also planning awareness campaigns to educate residents about the dangers of fuel scooping, emphasizing the need for safer, legal alternatives. As the investigation continues, the Jigawa State government is urging residents to cooperate with law enforcement efforts to curb this dangerous practice.
As the community grapples with this tragedy, officials remain vigilant in their efforts to prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of all residents.