Six feared dead as explosion rocks Imo Market

An explosion triggered by an Improvised Explosive Device, IED, planted at the Eke Ubaheze market in Awo-Idemili, Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State, has reportedly claimed the lives of six persons, leaving several others injured.

According to reports, the incident caused panic and confusion in Ubaheze and nearby communities after news spread that an unknown individual had planted the bomb within the market.

Eyewitnesses said the blast happened when a middle-aged woman, identified as Ngozi Umeh, unknowingly stepped on the device. Six people reportedly died on the spot, with many others injured.

However, the Imo State Police Command, through its spokesperson, Henry Okoye, confirmed that one person was confirmed dead while five others sustained injuries in the explosion.

Okoye stated, “The Imo State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation following an unfortunate incident that occurred on June 24, 2025, around 2:30 pm at Eke Ubaheze Market, where an IED detonated, leading to the death of a woman and injuries to five others.”

He revealed that preliminary investigations suggested the landmine was likely planted by suspected IPOB/ESN members, adding that the victim was critically injured and later died at the hospital.

In response, the Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, promptly deployed operatives from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, Tactical Teams, and personnel from the Orsu and Orlu Divisions to cordon off the area, evacuate the injured, and conduct a thorough sweep for additional explosives.

Okoye assured residents that normalcy has since returned to the market under tight security surveillance, and the area has been declared safe. He added that the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department has been ordered to carry out a comprehensive investigation to apprehend those behind the attack.

The police also commiserated with the family of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery, while urging residents to remain calm as security measures have been put in place to prevent further occurrences.