One injured as arsonists set Anambra diesel site ablaze

One person was badly burnt, and several storage tanks and other items were destroyed when a diesel storage site caught fire at Ndieze Nwankwo, along Edibros Road, Uruagu, in the Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State.

Diesel is a combustible petroleum product, and fires involving its storage can pose serious risks to nearby residents, property and businesses, particularly when storage facilities are located close to residential areas.

Such incidents also raise concerns about compliance with fire safety regulations, the proper handling of petroleum products and the need for adequate emergency response measures.

The incident, suspected to be a case of arson, occurred late on Sunday, causing panic among residents living near the scene.

Although no deaths were recorded, an eyewitness said the injured person was immediately rushed to a hospital for treatment.

The eyewitness added that the fire raged for several minutes before operatives of the state fire service arrived and brought it under control.

“The fire started suddenly with very thick smoke that engulfed the whole vicinity. It burnt several storage tanks containing diesel at the location. The fire came with some explosions.

“It burnt for several minutes before the arrival of the firefighters, who battled to extinguish it and prevented it from spreading further.

“One person was badly burnt and was immediately rushed to the hospital. It was suspected to be a case of arson,” the eyewitness added.

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Confirming the incident in a statement on Monday, the Head of the Media and Publicity Unit of the Anambra State Fire Service, Chukwudi Chiketa, said firefighters were deployed immediately after receiving a distress call.

Chiketa said the service received the call at about 5:45 pm on Sunday, November 1, 2026.

He said, “The Anambra State Fire Service has successfully contained a fire outbreak at a diesel storage site in Ndieze Nwankwo, along Edibros Road, Uruagu, Nnewi, Anambra State.

“The distress call was received at approximately 1745 hours on Sunday, 1st November, 2026, following a fire outbreak involving storage tanks containing diesel at the location.

“Firefighters immediately mobilised to the scene and worked diligently to contain the fire, preventing further spread. Some of the storage tanks were, however, affected by the fire.

“The incident was suspected to be a case of arson, as it was alleged that an unidentified individual deliberately set the facility on fire. The actual cause of the fire remains subject to investigation.

“Unfortunately, one victim was affected by the fire and was immediately rushed to the hospital for medical attention. Firefighters concluded their operations and departed the scene at 2058 hours on the same day.”

The Anambra State Fire Service urged members of the public to exercise caution in their daily activities, particularly when handling and storing petroleum products.

“The public is also advised to report fire emergencies promptly by contacting the Fire Service to ensure a timely response and minimise loss of lives and property,” the statement added.