The Cross River police command has confirmed one death following a tanker fire after the vehicle overturned opposite the Odukpani Local Government Secretariat.

Police spokesman, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said in a preliminary update on Sunday that the tanker was involved in a road traffic accident before it overturned and caught fire.

He said the tanker driver, who was reportedly trapped in the fire, had been rescued and taken to hospital for treatment.

Mr Eitokpah said the inferno had spread to nearby shops and buildings, while several vehicles were also affected.

“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.

He said the Fire Service had been alerted and was expected to deploy to the scene to contain the blaze.

Mr Eitokpah said one death had been confirmed as of the time of filing.

The police urged residents and motorists to stay away from the area and allow emergency responders unhindered access to the scene.

The command said further updates would be released as verified information became available.

(NAN)