A devastating power surge from an electricity transformer in the Tudun-Wadan Pantami area of Gombe metropolis has resulted in the deaths of five residents and injuries to 13 others.
The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, and was confirmed by the Gombe State Police Command through a statement issued by its spokesperson, DSP Buhari Abdullahi.
Providing details, DSP Abdullahi said the surge emanated from a nearby transformer and struck as residents were beginning their day.
He noted that officers from the Low-cost Divisional Police Headquarters were swiftly deployed to the scene to secure the area and ensure victims were rushed to nearby hospitals.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the unfortunate incident claimed the lives of five individuals, while thirteen others sustained various degrees of injuries,” he stated.
Abdullahi also disclosed that the injured are receiving treatment in various medical facilities across Gombe State.
“The deceased have been deposited at the following morgues: three at the Federal Teaching Hospital (FTH) Gombe, one at the State Specialist Hospital and one at Bolari Filin Kwallo Mortuary,” he added.
In the statement, he conveyed the condolences of the Commissioner of Police, Bello Yahaya, to the bereaved families and expressed wishes for the speedy recovery of the injured.
On behalf of the Commissioner, Abdullahi assured the public of a full investigation into the cause of the electrical surge.
“He assured the public that a thorough investigation would be conducted to ascertain the cause of the surge and ensure accountability where necessary,” the statement read.
Police authorities have since called for calm as the investigation continues.