One severely injured as arsonists raze diesel site in Anambra

One person was severely burnt when a diesel storage site caught fire in Uruagu, a community in Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The incident happened on Sunday evening when suspected arsonists attacked the site.

Apart from the injured victim who had been taken to the hospital, several storage tanks were destroyed in the inferno.

Personnel of the Anambra State Fire Service were said to have arrived at the site and stopped the fire shortly after it started.

The spokesperson of the Anambra State Fire Service, Chukwudi Chiketa, has confirmed the incident in a statement on Monday.

Mr Chiketa said firefighters were deployed immediately after receiving a distress call at about 5:45 p.m.

“Firefighters immediately mobilised to the scene and worked diligently to contain the fire, preventing further spread.

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“Some of the storage tanks were, however, affected by the fire,” he said.

The spokesperson said although the actual cause of the fire was still under investigation, it was suspected to be a case of arson because an unidentified individual “deliberately set the facility on fire.”

“Unfortunately, one victim was affected by the fire and was immediately rushed to the hospital for medical attention,” he said, without identifying the victim.

Mr Chiketa 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,” he added.