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2 children killed in cylinder explosion
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Two children aged 10 and four tragically died following a gas cylinder explosion that triggered a fire at Mukumbura Border Post in Mashonaland Central on Saturday morning.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the incident, which occurred on April 26, 2026.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the blaze broke out after a gas cylinder exploded at a homestead where petrol and gas were being stored. The property was reportedly being used as an informal fuel retail outlet, raising concerns over unsafe handling of flammable substances.
The two children were trapped in the fire and died at the scene, while their father sustained severe burn injuries and is currently receiving treatment at Mount Darwin Hospital.
Authorities have since renewed calls for strict adherence to safety regulations governing the storage and handling of hazardous materials. Environmental Management Agency (EMA) Mashonaland Central spokesperson Maxwell Mupotsa warned against keeping dangerous substances in residential areas.
"The storage, sale or use of hazardous substances in large quantities should not be conducted at household level," he said.
The tragedy has once again brought into focus the risks associated with improper storage of fuel and gas in homes and informal trading sites, with authorities urging communities to prioritise safety.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the explosion are ongoing.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the incident, which occurred on April 26, 2026.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the blaze broke out after a gas cylinder exploded at a homestead where petrol and gas were being stored. The property was reportedly being used as an informal fuel retail outlet, raising concerns over unsafe handling of flammable substances.
The two children were trapped in the fire and died at the scene, while their father sustained severe burn injuries and is currently receiving treatment at Mount Darwin Hospital.
"The storage, sale or use of hazardous substances in large quantities should not be conducted at household level," he said.
The tragedy has once again brought into focus the risks associated with improper storage of fuel and gas in homes and informal trading sites, with authorities urging communities to prioritise safety.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the explosion are ongoing.
Source - ZBC
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