Gas explosion rocks Katsina, many injured, vehicles damaged

Several people have been injured, seven vehicles damaged, and two houses destroyed after a truck carrying gas cylinders exploded in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State.

While no fatalities were recorded, an anonymous local source told Channels Television on Friday that the cause of the explosion remains unknown. The truck was reportedly traveling from Niger Republic to deliver gas cylinders in the Magamar Jibia area.

Katsina State Police Command spokesperson, Abubakar Sadiq, confirmed the incident. He detailed that it occurred around 8:45 am when a loud blast was heard by officers at the Jibia Divisional Police Headquarters. The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) led a swift response team, alongside military personnel, to the scene.

Upon arrival, they found the truck engulfed in flames at the Tamal filling station along the Kagadama-Magamar Jibia Road. The coordinated efforts of the police and military successfully contained the fire, preventing further loss of life and limiting property damage.

“Six motor vehicles were significantly affected by the fire incident, but fortunately, no lives were lost,” the police spokesman added.

“The Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Police Command, CP Aliyu Abubakar Musa, has directed a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the explosion.

“Further developments will be communicated as the investigation proceeds.”