Tragedy in Rivers: Six Electrocuted as High-Tension Cable Snaps in Okrika
Okrika, Rivers State – At least six people, including a pregnant woman and a worker with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), were electrocuted in the early hours of Monday after a high-tension power cable snapped in Okrika Community, Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The tragic incident occurred around 1:12 a.m., sending deadly currents through nearby structures and igniting a fire that razed a building and destroyed properties estimated to be worth millions of naira.
Eyewitnesses say the victims were caught unaware as the live cable fell across residential areas, triggering a surge that spread rapidly through metal roofs and waterlogged ground.
The identities of all the deceased are yet to be officially released, but local residents confirmed the involvement of a pregnant woman and the NDLEA officer among the casualties.
Authorities from the Rivers State Emergency Management Agency (RSEMA) and the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) have been alerted, while investigation into the cause of the cable snap is reportedly underway.
Community leaders have called for swift action by relevant agencies to assess the safety of the power infrastructure in the area and to provide immediate support for affected families.
As of Tuesday morning, emergency responders were still combing the site for possible survivors or further damage, while grieving residents gathered near the scene in mourning.
