Many killed in Rivers pipeline blast
A crude oil pipeline has exploded in Rumuekpe community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, the police have told Peoples Gazette.
State police spokesman, Nnamdi Omoni, who confirmed the incident, said investigation is ongoing to ascertain to number of casualties.
“Investigation is ongoing. The number of casualties is yet to be ascertained,” Mr Omoni said via text message on Saturday morning.
Per The Guardian reports, at least 20 persons have been killed in the explosion while many were severely injured.
Although, The Gazette is yet to confirm the cause of the explosion, the outlet reported the explosion was caused by illegal refining of petroleum product which occurred early Friday at the Rumuji axis of East-West road in Emohua LGA.
Illegal crude oil refining is rampant in the Niger Delta states. Residents often suffer from black soot with many alleging adverse skin reactions during the rainy season aside other unknown health issues.
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