SIX KILLED IN IED EXPLOSION AT IMO MARKET, POLICE LAUNCH INVESTIGATION
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
At least six people have been confirmed dead following the detonation of an improvised explosive device (IED) at the Eke Ubaheze Market in Awo-Idemili, Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State, sparking widespread panic across the community and neighboring villages.
The explosion occurred around 2:30 p.m. on Monday after a middle-aged woman, identified as Ngozi Umeh, reportedly stepped on a landmine planted within the market premises. Witnesses in the village confirmed that the blast killed six people and injured several others, causing chaos and fear in the usually bustling marketplace.
Reacting to the incident, the spokesperson of the Imo State Police Command, Mr. Henry Okoye, issued a statement confirming the detonation of an IED but put the official casualty figure at one dead and five injured.
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“The Imo State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation following an unfortunate incident that occurred on June 24, 2025, at about 14:30 hours, at Eke Ubaheze Market Square, Awo-Idemili, where an IED detonated, resulting in the death of one person and injury to five others,” he said.
Okoye further stated that preliminary investigations indicate that the explosive device was likely planted by suspected IPOB/ESN terrorists. The primary victim, Ngozi Umeh, was critically wounded in the explosion and later died in hospital. The injured are reportedly receiving medical treatment.
Following a distress call, the state Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, ordered the immediate deployment of operatives from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, Tactical Teams, and officers from the Orsu and Orlu divisions. The area was cordoned off, victims were evacuated, and the market vicinity was swept for any additional explosives.
Police have since declared the market area safe and assured the public that security has been strengthened to prevent further incidents. The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) has also been tasked with leading a comprehensive investigation to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
Commissioner Danjuma extended condolences to the family of the late Ngozi Umeh and expressed hope for the speedy recovery of those injured. He urged residents of Orsu and its environs to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities, assuring that the police command is committed to maintaining peace and security in the state.
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