The Anambra State Police Command has dismissed social media claims that the fire incident at Udoji Road, Ozubulu, was caused by a terrorist attack.
Police spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said in a statement on Sunday that the fire outbreak resulted from a fatal motor accident involving a petrol tanker and two other vehicles.
“The incident was the result of a collision between a tanker loaded with PMS and a Toyota Corolla,” he explained. “The tanker exploded after impact, burning nearby shops and a tricycle whose rider was fatally injured.”
Ikenga said the clarification was necessary to calm rising tension caused by misleading online rumours alleging an armed attack.
He added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Orutugu, has ordered an investigation to identify those behind the fake reports.
“The command frowns at individuals spreading fear and misinformation,” Ikenga stated, assuring that police remain committed to accurate information flow and public safety.