Two Reported Dead As Explosion Rocks Chinese Gas Company In Abia

There was an explosion at the Inner Galaxy Gas Plant in Asa, Ukwa West LGA of Abia State, leading to the death of two persons while eleven others sustained varying injuries.

The explosion occurred around 9:00 am while customers were being attended to at the facility, according to a community source, who added the gas plant is owned by a Chinese company.

Meanwhile, the Executive Chairman of Ukwa West LGA, Dike Nwankwo, has visited the scene of the blast and evacuated the injured victims to a hospital in Port Harcourt, Rivers State for prompt treatment through emergency services.

Nwankwo expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families, assured that the council remains committed to monitoring developments and enforcing necessary safety reviews at the facility.

The local government chairman who ordered thorough investigation into the explosion, further emphasized the need for strict adherence to safety protocols by the management of Inner Galaxy to prevent future occurrences.

Confirming the development, the spokesperson of Abia State Police Command, DSP Maureen Chinaka said that the incident was reported to the Obehie Divisional Headquarters by the CSO of Inner Galaxy.

She said the blast occurred when a gas cylinder slipped from the hand of a customer and hit the ground before exploding.

Chinaka said injured victims are presently responding to treatment in a hospital in Port Harcourt, adding that the police have visited the scene and commenced investigation.