Fatal blast hits Imo market; Six confirmed dead

The police have launched a full investigation, with early findings linking the explosion to
suspected separatist elements.

Panic gripped the community of Ubaheze in Awo-Idemili, Orsu Local Government Area of
Imo State on Tuesday, following a deadly explosion that rocked the Eke Ubaheze Market
Square, killing at least six people and leaving many others injured.

Eyewitnesses said the blast occurred around 2:30 p.m., when a middle-aged woman, later
identified as Ngozi Umeh, unknowingly stepped on an IED planted in the market by
unidentified individuals.

The explosion triggered widespread chaos in Ubaheze and surrounding communities, as word
of the bomb spread rapidly.

Multiple local sources confirmed the death toll at six, with several others injured in the blast.
However, in an official statement, Imo State Police Command spokesperson, Henry Okoye,
reported that one person died and five others were injured in the incident.

“The Imo State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation, following the
unfortunate incident that occurred on June 24, 2025, at Eke Ubaheze Market Square, Awo-
Idemili, where an IED detonated,” Okoye said.

He explained that preliminary investigations suggest the device was likely planted by
operatives of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, Eastern
Security Network (ESN). Ngozi Umeh, who triggered the blast, sustained critical injuries and
was later confirmed dead at a local hospital.

Police Commissioner Aboki Danjuma immediately dispatched operatives from the Explosive
Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, tactical teams, and personnel from nearby Orsu and Orlu
divisions to secure the area, evacuate victims, and sweep the vicinity for any additional
explosive devices.

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According to Okoye, the area has since been declared safe, with normal activities resumed
under tight security surveillance.

He added that the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal
Investigation Department (SCID) has been directed to carry out a comprehensive
investigation to identify and apprehend those behind the attack.

Commissioner Danjuma expressed condolences to the family of the deceased, late Ngozi
Umeh, and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

“The command remains resolute in its determination to root out all criminal elements
threatening the peace of the state,” the police statement added.

Residents of Orsu and neighbouring communities have been urged to remain calm and go
about their lawful activities, as enhanced security measures are now in place to prevent
further incidents.