Chinese firm denies culpability in death of female crane operator

Chinese firm, Inner Galaxy Steel Company Nigeria Limited, has denied allegations of foul play following the death of one of its female employees, Miss Vivian Ocheze-Munachim, a crane operator who allegedly fell off the crane she was operating and died sparking wave of public protests and looting.

The company located in Abia State, said allegations of foul play in her death which are being circulated in social media were untrue and meant to drag the name of the company in the mud.

Spokesman of the company, Ceng Jing, who called for calm, explained that the unfortunate incident happened when Ocheze fell asleep while operating the crane, causing her to lose control and fall.

Social media misinformation according to Mr. Jing, has led to an outbreak of violence, looting and the vandalization of the company’s property, including its warehouse, production line, oxygen station, vehicles, and other facilities and equipment.

In a statement, he said other Nigerian staff who witnessed the tragic accident on Tuesday May 21, 2024, have since corroborated this account as against what was making the rounds on social media that she was pushed to her death by a Chinese staff.

“We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues.

“Regrettably, social media misinformation has spread false allegations that a Chinese staff member pushed Ocheze off the crane she was operating.

“Unfortunately, instead of telling the truth, some people chose to take advantage of the tragedy to spread false information. Some people with sinister motives quickly gathered together and stormed the company, looting and burning, leading to the escalation of the crisis.

“We want to assure the public that these claims are entirely unfounded and have been thoroughly investigated and found to be false,” the statement contains.

The company has also denied rumours of a romantic relationship between a Chinese staff member and the deceased, stating that “there is no evidence whatsoever that a Chinese staff was having a relationship with the late deceased.”

The company also assured that it is cooperating fully with the police investigation and is ready to provide support and compensation to the truth, some people chose to take advantage of the tragedy to spread false information. Some people with sinister motives quickly gathered together and stormed the company, looting and burning, leading to the escalation of the crisis.

“We want to assure the public that these claims are entirely unfounded and have been thoroughly investigated and found to be false,” the statement contains.

The company has also denied rumours of a romantic relationship between a Chinese staff member and the deceased, stating that “there is no evidence whatsoever that a Chinese staff was having a relationship with the late Miss Vivian Ocheze Munachim.”

The company also assured that it is cooperating fully with the police investigation and is ready to provide support and compensation to the decease’s family. They also urged the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading unsubstantiated rumours.

“We want to assure the public that Inner “We want to assure the public that Inner Galaxy Steel Company Nigeria Limited is not culpable in Miss Ochieze’s death. We value the safety and well-being of our employees and are committed to providing a secure working environment.

“We also want to assure the public that we are ready to perform our responsibility to the deceased family regarding this unfortunate accident. We will provide necessary support and compensation to the family, as we understand the gravity of the loss and the impact on her loved ones.

“We appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult time urging all to refrain from spreading unsubstantiated rumours and allow the authorities to complete their investigation,” the statement added.