Woman k!lled, five others injured in Imo market bomb explosion

A bomb explosion struck the Eke Ubaheze Market Square in Awo-Idemili, Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, resulting in the death of one woman and injuries to five others.

The incident occurred around 2:40 p.m. during active trading hours when Mrs. Ngozi Umeh of Ubaheze village reportedly stepped on a planted landmine, sustaining critical injuries that led to her death at the hospital.

Imo State Police Command spokesperson, Henry Okoye, confirmed the explosion in a statement on Wednesday, attributing the planted explosive to suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

He added that the five other victims are currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed medical facility.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the explosion occurred when Ngozi Umeh ‘F’, a middle-aged woman from Ubaheze village, stepped on a landmine suspected to have been planted by IPOB/ESN terrorist. She was critically injured and later confirmed dead at the hospital, while five others sustained varying degrees of injuries and are receiving medical attention,” the PPRO stated.

“Upon receipt of the distress call, the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, Aboki Danjuma, swiftly deployed operatives of the command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, tactical teams, and personnel from Orsu and Orlu Divisions to cordon off the area, evacuate victims, and sweep the market vicinity for any other planted IEDs. The area has since been declared safe, and normal activities have resumed under enhanced security surveillance.”

Meanwhile, Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, has extended his condolences to the family of Mrs. Ngozi Umeh and offered prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured victims.

He reaffirmed the Imo State Command’s dedication to eliminating all criminal elements disturbing the peace in Orsu and the state at large. According to police spokesperson Henry Okoye, adequate security measures have been implemented to prevent a recurrence, and residents are encouraged to carry on with their lawful activities without fear.

The Command also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious items, individuals, or movements to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency contact line 08034773600.

The Commissioner of Police has also directed the Deputy Commissioner in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to launch a comprehensive investigation into the incident.

The aim is to unmask and apprehend those responsible for planting the explosive device and bringing them to justice.

The Imo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to ensuring that those behind the attack face the full weight of the law.