Two suspected scrap metal scavengers died on Thursday night after an explosion ripped through a drainage tunnel in Nekede, Owerri West Local Government Area, Imo State Police Command has confirmed.

The incident occurred at about 9:15 p.m. on June 25 inside a large drainage channel at No. 1 Old Nekede Road, opposite Lakeside Hotel, according to a statement signed by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye .

Police said operatives immediately mobilized to the scene, cordoned off the area, and deployed the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), Unit to sweep and secure the location. The area has since been declared safe.

Preliminary investigation identified the deceased as Hyginus Akalonu, 32, of Umulumu, Ehime Mbano LGA, Imo State, and Victor Egwu, 22, of Agba, Ishielu LGA, Ebonyi State. Both men were reportedly inside the tunnel scavenging for metal when the blast occurred.

They sustained severe burn injuries and were rushed to the Federal University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Owerri, where they were confirmed dead while receiving treatment.

The EOD Unit has commenced a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the explosion. Okoye said further updates will be communicated as the probe progresses.

Meanwhile, the State Commissioner of Police Garba Bosso said the Command is “fully on top of the situation” and assured residents there is no cause for panic.

He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects or activities to the nearest police station or via the Command’s emergency lines. (The Sun, excluding headline)