Over thirty persons have reportedly died in Ibaa community, Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, following a fire explosion from an illegal oil refining site.
The fire, according to a source from the community, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, emanated from a local refining cooking pot, which was connected to a pit where several persons were scooping crude oil extracted from a pipeline.
It was gathered that some of the victims burnt beyond recognition, while others died before they were rushed to the hospital for medical attention.
The incident was said to have occurred late Sunday night.
The Rivers State Police Command is yet to make an official statement about the tragic incident.
Folarin Kehinde is an Abuja-based journalist with over 5 years of experience in journalism. His work has earned him national and international recognition across various beats, including environment, health and politics.
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