EDO POLICE WARN PUBLIC, CORPORATE BODIES OVER FAKE BOMB THREATS USED FOR EXTORTION
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The Edo State Police Command has issued a public alert warning individuals, business owners, and corporate organisations about a surge in anonymous bomb threats being used by fraudsters to extort money.
The warning was contained in a statement released on Monday by the Assistant Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, who described the threats as deliberate attempts at extortion through fear and intimidation.
According to the statement, the Command has received multiple reports of anonymous callers claiming to have planted explosives in business premises or offices and then demanding money to prevent detonation.
“The Edo State Police Command has observed a disturbing trend involving anonymous callers threatening individuals, business owners, and corporate organisations in the state, claiming that explosive devices have been planted on their premises,” Ikoedem said.
“The callers then demand money, threatening to detonate the alleged explosives if their demands are not met. These acts are clear attempts at extortion through fear and intimidation, and the Command is actively investigating the reported cases,” she added.
The police urged residents to remain calm and not yield to the demands of the fraudsters, assuring the public that the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit is fully equipped to detect and neutralise any explosives if found.
“Do not panic or succumb to any financial demands from such callers,” the statement advised. “Report all such calls or messages immediately to the nearest police station or to the Command’s Control Room via 08077773721 or 08037646272. Avoid spreading unverified information or causing unnecessary panic.”
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has ordered the deployment of specialised units, including the EOD Team, Intelligence Bureau, and Tactical Squads, to swiftly respond to any reported threats and ensure public safety.
The Command further disclosed that it is collaborating with telecommunications providers and other security agencies to trace and apprehend those behind the threats.
Security experts note that extortion through fake bomb threats mirrors a global criminal pattern, where perpetrators use fear to manipulate victims into paying money.
Edo State, like other parts of Nigeria’s South-South region, has experienced security challenges involving tactics that weaponise fear and uncertainty.
According to a 2024 report by the European Union Agency for Asylum, the South-South zone recorded several incidents of violence against civilians in 2023, underscoring the importance of vigilance and public cooperation with security agencies.
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