One Killed, Five Injured In Tragic Landmine Explosion At Imo Market.
A devastating landmine explosion rocked Eke Ubaheze Market Square in Awo-Idemili, Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria, on Tuesday, 23 June 2025, claiming the life of a market woman and leaving five others injured. The incident, which occurred around 2:40 pm during bustling trading activities, has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about security in the region.
The victim, identified as Mrs Ngozi Umeh from Ubaheze village, was critically injured after stepping on a landmine suspected to have been planted by members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). Despite being rushed to a hospital, Mrs Umeh succumbed to her injuries. The five other victims, who sustained various degrees of injuries, are currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed medical facility.
ASP Henry Okoye, spokesperson for the Imo State Police Command, confirmed the incident in a statement on Wednesday, 25 June 2025. “Preliminary investigations revealed that the explosion occurred when Ngozi Umeh, a middle-aged woman from Ubaheze village, stepped on a landmine suspected to have been planted by IPOB/ESN terrorists,” Okoye told local media. He added that the police are committed to rooting out criminal elements threatening the peace of Orsu and Imo State as a whole.
The explosion has heightened tensions in the community, with some local sources claiming the number of fatalities may be higher, though these reports remain unconfirmed. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious items, persons, or movements to the nearest police station or via the Command’s emergency line: 08034773600.
In response to the tragedy, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department has been directed to launch a comprehensive investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack. The police have also implemented additional security measures to prevent further incidents and reassure residents to continue their lawful activities.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with community members and social media users expressing grief and calling for justice. “A landmine in a market? That’s not just violence, it’s terror against innocent people trying to survive,” one user posted on X, reflecting the sentiment of many. “Imo needs peace, not explosives.”
This tragic event underscores the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria’s southeast, where separatist violence has periodically disrupted civilian life. The Imo State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to restoring calm and ensuring the safety of residents as investigations continue.
