Pandemonium as gas explosion destroys properties, injures residents in Calabar

An explosion at a private petrol and gas filling station on Edibe Edibe Street in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State has left several residents injured and caused extensive property damage.

The incident, which occurred on Saturday, completely destroyed the facility, identified as Fonex Gas Station.

Eyewitnesses said the blast triggered a massive fire that consumed key areas of the station, including fuel and gas storage tanks, as well as vehicles parked within the premises.

The station, located in a densely populated neighbourhood, also affected nearby shops and buildings, forcing residents and business owners to flee for safety.

Several victims sustained varying degrees of injuries. While some were treated at nearby patent medicine stores, others were rushed to hospitals for medical attention.

As of press time, emergency responders, including the fire service, were yet to arrive at the scene, raising concerns among residents.

The development reportedly created an opportunity for hoodlums to loot goods from affected shops and the destroyed facility.

Residents thronged the scene in large numbers, with some making efforts to contain the fire using sand, water and other improvised materials.

There were conflicting accounts on the cause of the explosion, with some blaming it on a phone call made near the gas dispensing point, while others linked it to possible electrical faults or faulty equipment.

Police Public Relations Officer in the state, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, confirmed that officers had been deployed, adding that efforts were ongoing to mobilise fire service personnel, including support from FAAN.

Further details are expected as authorities take control of the situation.

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