BREAKING: Over 30 feared dead as tanker explodes in Imo forest

Tragedy struck in the forest of Obitti, within the Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State, as a tanker suspected to be involved in oil bunkering exploded, claiming the lives of over 30 individuals. The incident unfolded on Tuesday at the Ndorama pipeline right of way in the Obitti rubber estate, according to gathered reports.

At present, conflicting accounts surround the circumstances leading to the fatal explosion. Some sources suggest that an altercation, marked by gunfire, erupted between two rival groups seeking dominance in the oil bunkering business. Conversely, others speculate that leaders overseeing the illicit trade orchestrated the attack, ultimately resulting in the catastrophic blast.

Witnesses on the scene, captured in a video, recounted the events leading up to the explosion. Allegedly, vandals targeted the Ndorama pipeline right of way, employing a tanker suspected for illegal bunkering. The perpetrators reportedly dug into the ground, tapped into the pipeline, and attempted to siphon oil into the tanker. Unfortunately, the operation took a tragic turn, leading to a massive explosion that claimed numerous lives, leaving some bodies burnt to ashes.

A community leader, speaking anonymously, added another dimension to the narrative, alleging that the victims had trespassed into an illegal bunkering location controlled by a notorious kingpin, rumored to be a politician.

In response to the incident, Henry Okoye, the Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed that the command has established a high-powered investigation team to determine the immediate cause of the explosion and apprehend those responsible.