22-Year-Old Killed In Explosion While Grinding Scrap Metal In North West

Police in Ikageng in the North West have launched an investigation into a deadly explosion that claimed the life of a 22-year-old man in Promosa on Saturday evening, 10 January 2026.

The young man was reportedly working in his yard, cutting pieces of metal with an electric grinder for recycling, when the fatal incident occurred.

Loud Explosion Heard Moments Before Discovery

A witness told police that a sudden, loud bang was heard moments before the victim was found lying on the ground.

“Upon inspection, the man was found lying on the ground with multiple open wounds and he was unresponsive,” said police spokesperson Constable Thuto Bobelo.

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Emergency services were immediately called to the scene, and the victim was rushed to Promosa Clinic. However, medical staff declared him dead on arrival.

Explosive Unit Finds Shrapnel Linked to EOD Device

Following the incident, police deployed specialists from the Explosive Unit to conduct a detailed examination of the scene.

Bobelo said investigators made a disturbing discovery. “The examination revealed the presence of shrapnel consistent with a nose fuse of an explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) device,” he explained.

This finding confirmed that the victim had unknowingly attempted to cut through a dangerous explosive device, mistaking it for scrap metal.

Police Warn Residents About Dangerous Metal Objects

Authorities have since issued an urgent warning to residents to remain vigilant when handling unfamiliar metal objects.

“Police urge members of the public to remain vigilant and exercise extreme caution when handling unknown or discarded metal objects, as some may be potentially dangerous explosive devices,” Bobelo said.

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He added that residents should avoid collecting unidentified items, especially those found near military training facilities, where such ordnance may be present.

Acting provincial police commissioner Major General Ryno Naidoo echoed the warning, stressing the police’s “firm commitment to eradicating illegal explosives in communities and ensuring public safety”.

The investigation into the deadly explosion is ongoing.

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