Two persons have been confirmed dead following a tanker fire opposite the Odukpani Local Government Secretariat in Cross River.

The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Sunday by its Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata.

Akata said preliminary information indicated that the tanker, which was conveying petroleum products, was involved in a road traffic accident and overturned, resulting in a fire that spread to nearby shops and buildings.

He said the tanker conductor died on the spot while the driver who was reportedly trapped in the fire, was rescued and taken to a hospital for medical attention, but later died in the process.

“Police officers from Odukpani Division are currently at the scene to maintain safety, secure the area and prevent further harm to members of the public,” he said.

The police spokesman said the Fire Service had also been alerted to deploy personnel to contain and extinguish the fire, adding that the incident reportedly affected several shops and vehicles.

Akata urged members of the public to stay away from the immediate area and allow emergency responders unhindered access to the scene.

He said the command would provide further updates as verified information became available