One killed, five injured as landmine detonates in Imo market

A tragic landmine explosion rocked Eke Ubaheze Market Square in Awo-Idemili, Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State on Tuesday afternoon, resulting in the death of one person and injuries to five others.

The incident, which occurred around 2:40 p.m., claimed the life of Ngozi Umeh, a female trader from Ubaheze village, who was fatally wounded in the blast and later died in a hospital.

While local accounts suggested two people had died, the Imo State Police Command confirmed only one casualty.

Police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, speaking to PUNCH, said the explosion was likely triggered by a landmine planted by members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the explosion occurred when Ngozi Umeh ‘F’, a middle-aged woman from Ubaheze village, stepped on a landmine suspected to have been planted by IPOB/ESN terrorists,” Okoye said.

“She was critically injured and later confirmed dead at the hospital, while five others sustained varying degrees of injuries and are receiving medical attention,” he added.

The police have since deployed their Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit and tactical teams to the site. Officers from the Orlu and Orsu divisions were also mobilised to secure the area and evacuate victims.

According to Okoye, the market has been declared safe, and commercial activities have resumed under tight security.

The State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, has conveyed his condolences to Umeh’s family and wished the injured a swift recovery.

Danjuma also directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department to launch a full investigation to track down those responsible for the attack.

Residents have been encouraged to remain calm and vigilant.

“We urge the public to go about their lawful activities without fear and to report suspicious movements, persons, or objects to the nearest police station or via the command’s emergency number: 08034773600,” Okoye said.