By Gabriel Ameh
Gas Plant Explosion: FCT Police Launch Manhunt for Driver After Vehicle Crashes Into PlantThe FCT Police Command has launched a manhunt for the driver of an unregistered Toyota 4Runner Jeep after the vehicle crashed into a cooking gas plant at Byazhin, Abuja, triggering a fire that affected nearby shops and properties.
The incident occurred at about 6:30 a.m. on Sunday, September 27, 2026, around Liberty Junction, Byazhin.According to the FCT Police Command, the incident was reported by a resident who alerted the police to the fire outbreak at the gas plant.
Police officers from the Kubwa Police Division were immediately deployed to the scene and met a raging fire that had spread from the gas plant to nearby shops and other properties.The police subsequently contacted the Federal Fire Service, which responded to the scene and worked with the police to contain the inferno.
Preliminary findings by the police indicated that the driver of the unregistered Toyota 4Runner was allegedly driving against traffic when the vehicle lost control and crashed into the cooking gas plant.
The impact reportedly triggered an explosion and fire, which spread to nearby shops and properties.The driver and other occupants of the vehicle reportedly fled the scene immediately after the incident.
The police said they have established the identity of the driver and are currently working to apprehend him.
The FCT Police Command also confirmed that the fire has been contained and that no casualties were recorded in the incident.
However, the Command said a detailed assessment of the value of properties damaged or destroyed in the fire is still ongoing.The police assured residents that normalcy has returned to the area and urged affected residents and business owners to resume their lawful activities.
The Command also advised members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station.Residents can also contact the FCT Police Command through its emergency numbers: 08032003913 and 08028940883.
