Raphael Kanu
Residents say six persons were killed on Tuesday when an Improvised Explosive Device, IED, said to have been planted at Eke Ubaheze Market, Awo-Idemili in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State, exploded.
It was gather that the incident generated chaos and anxiety in Ubaheze, and its adjoining communities, as news of the bomb planted in the market by unknown persons spread like wildfire.
It was also gathered that the explosion occurred immediately when a middle-aged woman, identified as Ngozi Umeh, unknowingly stepped on the IED.
Multiple sources in the village said six persons died in the explosion, while many others were injured.
Reacting, however, to the incident, Imo Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Henry Okoye, said only one person was killed as investigation into the market explosion has commenced.
“The Imo State Police Command has launched full-scale investigation, following an unfortunate incident that occurred on June 24, 2025, about 1430hrs, at Eke Ubaheze Market Square, Awo-Idemili in Orsu Local Government Area, Imo State, where an IED, detonated, resulting in the death of one person and injury to five others”.
“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.
“She was critically injured and later confirmed dead at the hospital, while five others sustained injuries and are receiving medical attention.
“Upon receipt of the distress call, the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, Aboki Danjuma, swiftly deployed operatives of the command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal, EOD, Unit, Tactical Teams, and personnel from Orsu and Orlu Divisions, to cordon off the area, evacuate victims, and sweep the market vicinity for any other planted IEDs.
“The area has since been declared safe and normal activities have resumed under enhanced security surveillance.
“In addition, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, has been directed to commence a comprehensive investigation aimed at unmasking and apprehending the perpetrators,” he said.
According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police in the state has commiserated with the family of the deceased, late Ngozi Umeh, and prayed for the quick recovery of the injured victims.