Tricycle Operator, Vehicles, Shops Burnt as Petrol Tanker Crash into Vehicle in Anambra

By Praise Chinecherem

A tricycle operator was fatally burnt in a fatal auto crash in Ekwusigo local government area of Anambra state.

Police Spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga who confirmed the incident on Sunday said unconfirmed number of vehicles and nearby shops were also gutted during the incident.

He said the crash which involved two vehicles, a fuel tanker and a Toyota Corolla car collided leading to fire explosion.

According to him, the tanker burst into flames, resulting in the complete burning of both vehicles and some nearby shops.

Ikenga however refuted media reports linking the incident to attack by armed group, warning individuals and groups taking advantage of the incident to spread tension in the State to desist forthwith.

He said, “The Anambra State Police Command wishes to clarify that the fire incident recorded in Ekwusigo LGA was the result of a fatal motor vehicle accident involving a truck and other vehicles, and not an attack by any armed group, contrary to false information circulating on social media.

“The unfortunate incident occurred in the early hours of 21st November 2025, when a tanker truck loaded with PMS (fuel) collided with a Toyota Corolla car.

“The collision caused the tanker to burst into flames, resulting in the complete burning of both vehicles and some nearby shops.

“Regrettably, a tricycle (Keke) within the area of impact was also engulfed by the fire, and the rider was fatally burned.

“The Command has since initiated an investigation to establish the identities of the drivers and take other necessary actions.

“However, the Command strongly frowns at individuals and groups using this unfortunate incident to spread panic, fear, and tension in the State.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu has ordered a probe into the social media publication to identify and unmask the handler responsible for spreading the fake and misleading report.

“The Anambra State Police Command reassures the public of its commitment to ensuring accurate information flow, maintaining public safety, and preventing the spread of misinformation.”