Landmine Explosion Claims One Life, Injures Five in Imo Market

A tragic explosion rocked Eke Ubaheze Market in Awo‑Idemili, Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State, on June 24, leaving one woman dead and five others injured.

The blast, triggered by an improvised explosive device suspected to have been planted by operatives of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), caused widespread panic across Ubaheze and neighbouring communities.

Eyewitness accounts initially suggested that six people had died. However, the Imo State Police Command clarified on Friday that the explosion resulted in one fatality and five injuries.

According to the state police spokesman, Henry Okoye, investigations revealed that the device detonated when Ngozi Umeh, a middle-aged woman from Ubaheze village, unknowingly stepped on it. She later died from her injuries at the hospital.

“Upon receiving the distress call, the Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, immediately deployed operatives from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, tactical teams, and personnel from Orsu and Orlu divisions to secure the area, evacuate victims, and conduct a sweep for additional explosive devices,” Okoye said.

He added that the area has since been declared safe and that commercial activities have resumed under heightened security watch.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department has been tasked with leading a thorough probe to identify and apprehend those responsible.

The Commissioner extended condolences to the family of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.