Many fear death as crude oil sampling point explodes in Rivers State
An unknown number of people fear death after a crude oil sampling point exploded in Rumuekpe community, Emuoha Local Government Area, Rivers State in the early hours of the day of March 3.
One of the buses loaded with crude oil caught fire as it attempted to drive towards an illegal refining point in the area. The explosion set off a blaze that burned dozens of people, including women, beyond recognition. The incident, which happened along the Trans-Niger Delta Pipeline (TNP), also burned down many vehicles and tricycles.
It was found that people around the pick-up point, who had either loaded the crude or waited their turn, were all killed by the explosion.
State Police Command spokeswoman Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed the incident and said an investigation has begun.
