The Plateau State Police Command has debunked reports that an explosive, suspected to be a bomb, rocked Jos, the Plateau State capital, in the early hours of today (Tuesday), News About Nigeria reports.
The bomb scare was said to have occurred at Ahmadu Bello Way, near the Old JUTH fence in Jos.
According to the spokesperson of the State Police Command, Alfred Alabo, who spoke to journalists, the alarm was false and no casualties occurred, contrary to earlier claims.
Providing details on the incident, Alabo revealed that the Police had received a report of a suspicious, shallow dug hole, which caused panic among residents and raised concerns that it might contain an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) around 8:20 am on Tuesday.
He further explained that, following the report, the Commissioner of Police in Plateau State, Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina, immediately mobilized the force’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, the Area Commander Metro, and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the “C” Division to assess the situation.
Alabo added that upon arriving at the scene, the team quickly cordoned off the area to ensure public safety while conducting a thorough examination.
He explained that after a detailed inspection, the bomb disposal experts confirmed that the hole posed no threat, as it was free from any explosives.
The area was deemed safe, and no further danger to the public was reported.
The Police spokesperson stated, “In the early hours of today, the 12th of November 2024, at exactly 08:20 am, the Plateau State Police Command received a report of a shallow dug hole suspected to be planted with an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) at Ahmadu Bello Way beside the Old JUTH fence, which created panic among the residents of the state.
“Upon receiving this report, the Plateau State Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina, immediately ordered the Area Commander Metro and the Officer in Charge of the Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, also known as the Anti-Bomb Squad, to mobilize a team of bomb technicians to the scene in collaboration with the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the “C” Division to assess the situation and take necessary actions.
“Upon reaching the scene, the area was immediately cordoned off, and our EOD Team began their examination. Upon conclusion of the examination, the hole was found to be safe and free of any explosive devices.”
