Panic in Jos over bomb scare

There was panic in Jos, the capital of Plateau state, following a bomb scare. 

A statement by Alfred Alabo, police spokesperson in Plateau, said the command received reports of an improvised explosive device (IED) planted in a “shallow dug hole” along the Murtala Mohammed way, beside the old Jos Universty Tieaching Hospital (JUTH), on Tuesday morning.

He said Emmanuel Adesina, the state police commissioner, sent explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) officers to the area, and after investigation, confirmed there was no explosive threats.

“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,” the statement reads.

“The Plateau State Commissioner of Police, CP Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina, PSC and other members of his management team also visited the scene for an on-the-spot assessment.

“The CP wishes to commend the good people of Plateau State for being Security conscious, and cooperating with the Police throughout the exercise.”

Some reports said residents heard loud explosions with several persons injured.

Security personnel were reportedly stationed in the area to control movement while a search was conducted.

In May, security operatives apprehended a man strapped with person borne improvised explosive device (SPBIED) inside a bank in the state.

The man had planned to detonate the explosives at the bank but was spotted by a vigilante operative who raised the alarm.