Police probe failed dynamite explosion in Rivers, asks resident to be cautious

The police command in Rivers has asked residents to provide information on the failed dynamite explosion that occurred in the state.

In a statement on Saturday, Grace Iringe-Koko, Rivers police spokesperson, said one male suspect has been arrested in connection with the explosion.

Iringe-Koko said police detectives are still searching for other perpetrators behind the explosion.

“The command has launched a comprehensive investigation to ascertain the cause and circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event,” the statement reads.

“We have identified one individual in connection to the explosion. Efforts are being made to gather crucial information and shed light on this situation.

“We thank the public for providing information, pictures, and videos to assist our ongoing investigation.

“Anyone who sees any suspicious object should evacuate the area immediately and promptly notify the police.”

On Tuesday, an explosion was said to have occurred near the Hotel Presidential during a protest march by some political leaders in support of the police operatives occupying the 23 Rivers LGA secretariats.

The explosion reportedly injured some protesters.

Police operatives have been occupying the LGA headquarters following the crisis that ensued over the tenure of elected chairpersons.

The crisis broke out in the 23 LGA secretariats of the state after the elected chairpersons, loyal to Nyesom Wike, minister of the federal capital territory, refused to vacate their offices after the expiration of their tenure.

Subsequently, Siminalayi Fubara, the governor’s, appointed caretaker committees to oversee the affairs of the local governments.

On Wednesday, one of the injured protesters was arrested after he was taken to Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) for treatment.

Reacting to the development, Fubara said masterminds of the failed dynamite explosion wanted a declaration of emergency rule in the state.