A midnight explosion rocked the Umuneke community in Mbieri, Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State, on Saturday, destroying a newly completed bungalow. Although no casualties were recorded, the incident left residents shaken and a couple’s dreams of moving into their new home shattered.
Massive Explosion Jolts Community
The explosion, which occurred late at night, reduced the recently finished bungalow to rubble. The powerful blast created a loud bang that reverberated across the community and neighboring villages, prompting confusion and fear among residents.
Iyke Njoku, a local resident, described the impact of the blast. “The sound was massive, and the bang was deafening. At first, we waited, thinking we might hear screams or see movement, but there was nothing. When neighbors from nearby villages started calling to ask about the sound, we decided to check the area,†he explained.
Njoku revealed that the house, a single-story bungalow, was newly constructed by a couple who had been planning to move in by February. “It is so painful that all their hard work has gone to waste. They were looking forward to moving in soon, but now, that dream is shattered,†he lamented.
Witnesses Share Their Experience
Another resident, Mr. Emma Emeka, recounted the unsettling experience. “We were in our house when we heard a massive sound, just like an explosion. When we rushed out to investigate, we found a newly constructed bungalow destroyed. It happened so suddenly—no one saw what triggered it or who was responsible,†Emeka said.
Emeka expressed concern over the incident’s impact on the couple who owned the house. “They worked so hard to build this home, and now it’s in ruins. It’s heartbreaking to see their efforts reduced to rubble,†he said.
Residents in neighboring villages also reported hearing the blast and expressed fears of a possible attack. “We all slept with one eye open that night, unsure of what had happened or if we were safe,†another resident added.
Lack of Official Response
Efforts to contact the Imo State Police Command for an official statement were unsuccessful. Calls to the state police spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, did not connect, leaving the community without answers regarding the cause of the explosion.
Ongoing Uncertainty
The cause of the explosion remains unknown, and the lack of immediate police intervention has heightened fears among residents. Many are speculating about the possible motives behind the incident, while others are calling for an urgent investigation to ensure the safety of the community.
Community on High Alert
The explosion has left the Umuneke community on edge, with residents calling for increased security measures to prevent further incidents. “This has left us deeply unsettled. We need the authorities to investigate this thoroughly and reassure us that we are safe,†a concerned resident stated.
Call for Investigation
The incident highlights the need for swift action by law enforcement agencies to determine the cause of the explosion and prevent similar occurrences in the future. As the community grapples with the aftermath, many are hopeful that the authorities will take decisive steps to restore confidence and safety in Umuneke.
