Six dead as IED detonates in Imo market

 Torchlight news.


Six Dead as IED Detonates in Imo Market



OWERRI—Panic gripped Awo-Idemili in Orsu LGA, Imo State, yesterday after an improvised explosive device (IED) went off at the busy Eke Ubaheze market, killing six people and wounding several others.

Witnesses said the blast occurred when a middle-aged trader, Ngozi Umeh, unknowingly stepped on the device. The explosion instantly claimed her life and those of five bystanders, while many shoppers sustained varying injuries.

Confirming the incident, spokesperson for the Imo State Police Command, Henry Okoye, said detectives have opened a full investigation.

“At about 2:30 p.m. on 24 June 2025, an IED detonated at Eke Ubaheze Market Square, Awo-Idemili,” he said. “Preliminary findings indicate that Mrs Umeh stepped on a landmine suspected to have been planted by IPOB/ESN terrorists. She later died in hospital; five others are receiving treatment.”

Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma immediately deployed Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists, tactical teams, and officers from Orsu and Orlu divisions to secure the scene, evacuate victims, and sweep the area for additional devices. The market has since reopened under heightened security.

Danjuma directed the Deputy Commissioner in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department to track down those responsible. He extended condolences to Umeh’s family and assured residents that the command “remains resolute in rooting out criminal elements threatening the state’s peace.”

Residents have been urged to stay calm and continue their normal activities, with police promising “adequate security measures” to prevent a repeat of the tragedy.

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