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

Mr Paul Osu, Head, Public Affairs of the agency disclosed this in a statement issued 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”, he said.

“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,” he said.

Osu said that the department will continue to monitor and sensitise members of the public on safe handling of petroleum products to prevent the occurrence of incidences.

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

THE GUARDIAN