Many feared dead, property worth billions of naira destroyed as explosion rocks popular market in Anambra

• The explosion which was said to have started from the chemical store section of the market occurred on Tuesday afternoon, November 8, 2022

• The Anambra Police Command Spokesman, Tochukwu Ikenga said that the situation is under control

Many have reportedly died and billion of naira in property were destroyed as an explosion rocked the popular Onitsha drug market, in Anambra state.

The explosion which was said to have started from the chemical store section of the market occurred on Tuesday afternoon, November 8, 2022.

A trader under the condition of anonymity said the incident has forced the traders to close shops.

According to him, a storey building where chemical dealers were doing their business was raised down.

“The explosion sound was heavy, putting fear in many traders in the market. We did not suspect any bomb issue. I’m on my way home and many other traders, but the fire service personnel are already on the ground to handle the situation,” he said.

When contacted, the Managing Director of the Anambra State Fire Service, Engr. Martin Agbili confirmed the outbreak, but however, said it affected a section of the Ọgbọ Ọgwụ Market.

While noting that the cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained, he said his men are currently there at the scene battling the fire. “The extent of damages caused by the fire is also yet to be ascertained,” Agbili said.

The Anambra Police Command Spokesman, Tochukwu Ikenga said that the situation is under control. According to him, the deputy commissioner in charge of the operation is currently there and the fire service operatives are also on the ground.