The Imo State Police Command has confirmed the death of a woman following an explosion at Eke Ubaheze Market Square in Awo-Idemili, Orsu Local Government Area of the state.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, was reportedly caused by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), suspected to have been planted by members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN). The victim, identified as Ngozi Umeh, a middle-aged woman, was said to have stepped on the device. She later died in the hospital from injuries sustained in the blast.
Five other individuals were also injured in the explosion and are currently receiving treatment.
In response, Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, deployed tactical units and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team to the scene to secure the area, evacuate victims, and sweep the market for additional threats. Following the operation, the area was declared safe, and commercial activities have since resumed under heightened security.
Danjuma has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to lead a thorough investigation to identify and arrest those behind the attack.
While commiserating with the family of the deceased and wishing the injured a speedy recovery, the Police Commissioner assured residents of Orsu and the entire state of the Command’s commitment to tackling all forms of criminality and maintaining public safety.
