Kehinde Fajobi
Residents in the Terminus area of Jos, Plateau State, were thrown into panic early on Tuesday following rumours of a bomb planted in the neighbourhood.
Social media was abuzz with messages warning of a suspected explosive device near Murtala Mohammed Way, sparking fear and causing people to flee.
However, the Plateau State Police Command quickly dispelled the rumours, confirming it was a false alarm.
The State Police Public Relations Officer, Alfred Alabo, explained the incident, stating, “In the early hours of today, the 12th day 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 the Murtala Mohammed Way beside Old JUTH fence, which created panic among the residents.”
Alabo noted that Plateau State Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, promptly directed the Area Commander Metro and the Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, or Anti-Bomb Squad, to investigate the scene in cooperation with the “C” Division Divisional Police Officer (DPO).
“On reaching the scene, the area was immediately cordoned, and our EOD Team began examination. Upon conclusion of the examination, the hole was found to be safe and free of any explosive devices,” Alabo confirmed.
Commissioner Adesina and other senior officers visited the site to conduct an on-the-spot assessment.
CP Adesina expressed gratitude to Plateau residents for their cooperation during the investigation, encouraging them to remain calm and continue with their daily activities.
“The area is safe and free of any threats to lives and properties,” he assured.
The Terminus area has a tragic history, having witnessed a deadly double bomb blast in 2014 that claimed numerous lives and left others with lifelong scars.