Scores injured, vehicles destroyed as gas explodes in Katsina community

A truck transporting gas cylinders exploded in the Magama community of Jibia Local Government Area in Katsina State on Friday, injuring many people and causing significant damage to nearby vehicles and buildings.

According to sources, the explosion occurred at the ‘Walidan’ filling station, where products believed to have been smuggled from Niger Republic were stored.

Aliyu Muhammad, a local resident, explained that the truck had been parked at the station for several days before the explosion. “Seven vehicles were destroyed, and two houses, including the one housing the filling station, were damaged,” Muhammad said, adding that numerous people were injured in the blast.

The incident was confirmed by Katsina State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, who stated that the explosion occurred at around 8:45 AM on November 15, 2024. Police officers stationed at the Jibia Divisional Police Headquarters heard the loud blast and responded quickly, with the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and military personnel rushing to the scene.

Upon arrival, the authorities found a truck loaded with gas cylinders engulfed in flames at the Tamal filling station along the Kagadama–Magamar Jibia road. The joint team acted swiftly to prevent further harm, extinguishing the fire and protecting lives and property.

Aliyu reported that six vehicles were severely damaged in the fire, but fortunately, no fatalities were recorded. He added that the Katsina State Commissioner of Police, CP Aliyu Abubakar Musa, has ordered a full investigation to determine the cause of the explosion, with updates to be provided as the inquiry progresses.

READ ALSO;

Without divine intervention, the exchange rate would have skyrocketed to #10,000 for $1 – Pastor E. A Adebole