Five killed, 10 injured in explosion at Kano steel factory

A devastating explosion at Yongxing Steel Company in Mariri Quarters, Kano, has claimed the lives of five individuals and left ten others injured, according to the Kano State Police Command.

The blast occurred while a truck loaded with metal scraps from Damaturu, Yobe State, was offloading materials within the factory premises. The incident, which happened earlier today, triggered immediate response from the police and emergency services.

Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, PhD, led the swift deployment of personnel, including operatives from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit and Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) response team. The area was quickly cordoned off to ensure public safety and to prevent further damage.

During the response, police EOD officers safely recovered seven suspected explosive devices from the site.

Fifteen people were initially rushed to Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital with varying degrees of injuries. Tragically, five of them succumbed to their wounds while receiving treatment. The remaining victims are reportedly responding to care.

CP Bakori has ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident and called on residents to remain calm and vigilant. He also encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity through the Command’s emergency lines: 08032419754, 08123821575, and 09029292926.

Police say the investigation will aim to determine whether the explosion was accidental or if there was foul play involved in the delivery of the scrap materials.

The Kano State Police Command reiterated its commitment to ensuring public safety and uncovering the root cause of the explosion.