Tragedy struck at an illegal oil refining site in Rivers State, where over 35 people are reported to have been burned to death. The incident occurred in Ibaa Community, Emohua Local Government Area of the state.
According to reports, a fire outbreak occurred at the illegal site late Sunday night, affecting all the people present, numbering over 45. The victims had reportedly gathered to trade in petroleum products when the fire ignited.
Emmanuel Daniel, a source in the community, recounted the tragic event, stating that more than 40 people were at the site, involved in scooping and bagging crude oil when the fire erupted. Seven individuals lost their lives inside the pit where they were scooping crude, and about ten were burnt to charcoal by the pit.
The victims hailed from Isiokpo Kingdom in Ikwerre Local Government Area, Ibaa, and Oduoha in Emohua LGA. Tragically, approximately 30 people perished at the site, while over 15 others were rushed to the hospital. Reportedly, three of them succumbed to their injuries while being transported to the hospital.
As of the time of reporting, the police had not confirmed the incident. The Police Public Relations Officer of the state Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, a Superintendent of Police, indicated that she would provide further information later.
