Tragedy struck in Kabong Central Community, a suburb within Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State on Saturday as a suspected electrical explosion claimed the life of six persons.
Two persons were said to have been critically injured by the explosion, which occurred at about 2 a.m. at a transformer triggered fire within the vicinity.
According to a source in the community, “the blast sent shockwaves throughout the area, causing widespread panic and fear among the residents.
“Also destroyed are shops, with losses estimated to be in millions of naira.”
Confirming the explosion, the Spokesperson of the State Police Command, DSP Alfred Alabo, said, “Yes we are aware of the incident at Kabong Central, which claimed the lives of six people and left two critically injured.
“One of the injured persons is receiving treatment at Bingham University Teaching Hospital, Jos, while the other is receiving treatment at the Jos University Teaching Hospital.
“As I speak to you, I have visited the family of the deceased on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Julius Alawari, to condole with them.
“However, preliminary reports said that the fire incident was caused by an electrical explosion in the area.
“But I can’t really say what actually happened, as investigation has commenced to unravel what led to the fire incident.”
Reacting to the development, the Jos Electricity Distribution Company expressed sadness.
In a statement on Saturday by its Head of Cooperate Communications, Dr Friday Adakole, the electricity company extended its sympathy to the families of those who encountered losses during the incident
It said, “Jos Electricity Distribution Plc is anguished by the unfortunate incident at about 0313 hours today, affecting customers on our Kabong primary Distribution Transformer in the Kabong area, Rukuba Road Jos.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the accident was a result of a high-tension line snap onto the low-tension lines which resulted in a voltage supply outside limits.
“The source feeder tripped off and inter-tripped the Transmission end source from Makeri Transmission Station.
“We will continue to be monitoring the situation closely and communicate the facts of this regrettable incident.
“Equally, an evaluation of the root causes is underway, and appropriate measures will be put in place to avert future occurrences.
“We express our deepest sympathies to families who have encountered losses as a result of this incident.
“We are grateful to traditional and community leaders in the area for all their support in managing the effects of the accident.”