The Magama community in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State was on Friday thrown into pandemonium as a truck conveying gas cylinders exploded injuring many people and destroying several vehicles.
Eyewitness accounts indicated that the explosion took place at a popular filling station ‘Walidan,’ where products suspected to be smuggled into the country from Niger Republic were being preserved.
“Approximately, the explosion occured around 8:45 am at the Tamal filling station along Kagadama-Magamar Jibia Road and it involved a truck transporting gas cylinders, which reportedly exploded while en route from Niger Republic to Magamar Jibia”, a source reportedly said.
It was further gathered that close associates of the petrol station owner had been warning him repeatedly to desist from the risky business.
Confirming the incident in a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer in Katsina, ASP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu said; “Today, November 15th, 2024, at about 0845hrs, a loud explosion was heard by police operatives attached to Jibia Divisional Police Headquarters.
“Responding promptly, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) led operatives, in collaboration with the military, to the scene.
“Upon arrival, operatives found a truck loaded with gas cylinders engulfed in flames at Tamal filling station along Kagadama – Magamar Jibia road, Jibia LGA.
“The joint team swiftly deployed preventive measures to protect lives and minimize property damage, successfully quenching the fire.”
ASP Aliyu further disclosed that fortunately, no live was lost but six vehicles were severely affected by the fire.
The Katsina Police Command Spokesperson further said; “The Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Police Command, CP Aliyu Abubakar Musa, has directed a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the explosion.
“Further developments will be communicated as the investigation proceeds”.
