UN calls for investigation into gas tanker explosion in Baghdad
Iraqi security forces inspect the site where the explosion of a gas tanker took place. Photo: Reuters
Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) called for a thorough investigation into the gas tanker explosion that took place on Saturday in eastern Baghdad, according to the UNAMI statement reported by the Iraqi News Agency (INA).
“Our heartfelt condolences to families of those killed by explosion of a tanker near a Baghdad sports field tonight and we wish the injured a speedy recovery,” the statement mentioned.
“Thorough investigation into cause and circumstances of this horrific incident must lead to accountability and prevention,” the statement added.
At least nine people were killed and more than 13 others were injured on Saturday in an explosion inside a parking lot in eastern Baghdad.
Baghdad Operations Commander, Lieutenant-General Ahmed Salim, explained that the explosion was a result of a technical failure in a gas tanker, and that it was not a terrorist act.
The explosion which was heard in several areas in Baghdad occurred in an open parking lot near a five-a-side football pitch in a residential neighborhood in the eastern part of the capital.
The Iraq Security Media Cell (ISMC) confirmed that the Commander-in-Chief of the Iraqi Armed Forces ordered to form an investigative committee under the supervision of the Minister of Interior to find out the circumstances of the accident.
The ISMC clarified that the aim is to let the public opinion know the details of the incident.
The Iraqi President, Abdul Latif Rashid, directed the authorities to launch an investigation into the deadly incident and to hold those who will be found negligent accountable.
The explosion occurred two days after the Iraqi Parliament approved the new cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani in a long-awaited vote.