Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC) has assured an investigation into the Kpofire explosion in Rumuekpe community, by a government-led joint investigation team will commence to uncover the cause of the incident.
Fire explosion from an illegal crude oil tapping point enraged Rumuekpe community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, early Friday morning killing scores of people.
The inferno left dozens, including women burnt beyond recognition, with many vehicles and tricycles burnt to ashes at the pipeline running through the community.
Reacting to the development, a spokesperson for SPDC, Michael Adande confirmed that the incident occurred on Rumuekpe – Nkpoku Trunk Line, operated by the company.
A memo obtained from Shell by Goodness Oil&Gas News revealed "The Shell Petroleum Development company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC) confirms that a fire incident occurred today, Friday March 3, 2023, on the Rumuekpe – Nkpoku Trunk Line in Rivers State. Our technical teams are working with relevant government agencies to put out the fire. Thereafter, an investigation into the incident by a government-led joint investigation team will commence to ascertain the cause of the incident."
Rivers State Police Command also confirmed the fire explosion of oil pipeline at the Rumuekpe community in the Emuoha Local Government Area of the State.
The Police Public Relations Officer in Rivers State, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed that preliminary investigation by the Police indicates that the victims were scooping crude product when the site caught fire. She said: "So far, about 12 persons are believed to have been burnt to death. The identities of the victims are still unknown. Five vehicles, four tricycles, and one motorcycle were all burnt to ashes."
The Rivers State Police Command enjoined members of the public to stay away from illegal oil bunkering, and avail themselves of the following hotlines to report any incident they believe has the potential to lead to break down of law and order: 08032003514, 08098880134.
