DPR identifies illegal LPG transfer as reason for Kaduna gas explosion

The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) says preliminary
investigations have revealed that the Kaduna gas explosion was
caused by illegal decanting (transfer) of Liquefied Petroleum Gas
(LPG) into another cylinder by operators of the facility.

DPR Head, Public Affairs Mr Paul Osu, disclosed this in a
statement on Sunday in Lagos.

“In line with our regulatory oversight on the oil and gas
industry, the agency immediately mobilised our staff to the scene
to investigate the cause of the explosion.

“We wish to inform the public that we are carrying out further
investigations on the incident, and we will update as soon as we
conclude.

“The department will continue to monitor and sensitise members
of the public on safe handling of petroleum products to prevent the
occurrence of incidences like this.

“We appeal to members of the public to continue to assist in
reporting the activities of illegal operators to the nearest DPR
office,” he said.

Osu said the DPR was saddened by the unfortunate incident which
occurred at an unlicensed LPG retail shop in Kaduna state,
resulting in fatalities.

Several persons lost their lives and many others were burnt in
the gas explosion at Sabon Tasha area of Kaduna metropolis on
January 4.

According to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the explosion
occurred at about 1:00 p.m. at a gas shop located by the main road
opposite Total filling station.