A tanker believed to be carrying liquefied natural gas (LNG) exploded at the Obiri-Ikwerre crossing on the East-West Expressway in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The incident around 9:30 am. involved an oil tanker carrying liquefied natural gas that overturned while traveling on the ring road, crushed a vehicle and exploded.
Confirming the incident in a telephone conversation, Police Public Relations Officer Grace Iringe-Koko said the victims were burnt beyond recognition when the tanker fell on the vehicle they were traveling in.
“The fire has been extinguished but the area is dangerous because gas is still flowing. Motorists are therefore advised to take alternative routes to avoid further accidents.”
The effects of the blast were felt miles away, with some residents saying their windows were broken, while others reported feeling vibrations.
At press time, firefighters were trying to put out the inferno as a crowd of onlookers gathered at the scene with heavy security. However, there was some mild drama when some supposed onlookers tried to steal parts of the truck but was confiscated by the crowd, who handed it over to the police.
