(UPDATED) JOS EXPLOSION: POLICE, GOV MUTFWANG DISMISS BOMB SCARE, ALLAY FEARS

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The Plateau State Police Command has dismissed reports of a bomb scare that caused alarm among Jos residents on Tuesday.

An initial eyewitness account had said that the explosive ordinance disposal team of the Plateau State Police Command’s early response to a distress call prevented the devices from exploding, which would have caused serious damage and casualties in the crowded market.

The witness stated that the law enforcement officers detonated one of the devices, which was about to explode, and had caused initial apprehension among residents in the city centre, while the other two devices were successfully evacuated by the disposal team.

However, the police, in a press release signed by the command’s public relations officer, Alfred Alabo, described the bomb scare as false.

The statement confirmed that police received a report of a shallow dug hole suspected to be planted with an improvised explosive device (IED) at Murtala Mohammed Way beside the old Juth fence, creating panic among the residents of the state.

“Upon receiving this report, the Plateau State Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, immediately ordered the area commander metro and the officer in charge of the command’s explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) unit anti-bomb squad to mobilize a team of bomb technicians to the scene in collaboration with the divisional police officer (DPO), “c” division, to assess the situation and take necessary actions.”

“On reaching the scene, the area was immediately cordoned and our EOD team began the examination. Upon conclusion of the examination, the hole was found to be safe and free of any explosive devices.” The police statement added.

The commissioner of police and other members of his management team also visited the scene for an on-the-spot assessment.

Reacting to the incident, the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, clarified that the bomb alarm was false.

According to him, the public alarm was triggered by a group of individuals who misinterpreted a heap of polythene bags as a potential threat.

The governor explained that security agencies, including the anti-bomb squad from the Plateau State Police Command, responded swiftly, conducting a thorough cordon and search operation at the scene.

“After an exhaustive inspection, no evidence of any explosive device was found,” he said.

The governor urged Plateau citizens to remain vigilant and act as responsible ambassadors of the state, upholding its reputation and rich heritage.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring enduring security across the state and to work tirelessly to restore peace and stability in the area.

Mutfwang called on the people to channel their efforts in supporting the government’s mission for sustainable peace and prosperity.

He encouraged residents, especially those near the terminus market, to continue their daily activities without fear.

The governor urged them to promptly report any suspicious occurrences to security personnel for quick action.