The widespread reports alleging a bomb blast and fresh crisis in Plateau State have been dismissed by the Police, describing the claims as false, misleading, and capable of inciting unnecessary panic among residents.
The Plateau State Police Command, in a press release issued by its spokesman, SP Alfred Alabo, clarified that the incident was not a bomb blast but an explosion at Natty Petroleum Investment Nigeria Ltd, a filling station in Daffo district of Bokkos Local Government Area.
He said the explosion occurred during welding repairs of an underground storage tank and not an act of terrorism or violence.
“The Command immediately deployed its Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit, also known as the anti-bomb squad, to conduct a preliminary investigation. Findings confirmed that the explosion was accidental and not linked to any improvised explosive device (IED) or terrorist activity,” the statement said.
Alabo said on receiving the report of the incident, the Commissioner of Police immediately directed the Divisional Police Officer to mobilize officers to the scene and evacuate the injured victims to Cottage Hospital Bokkos, while the remains of the deceased were deposited at the morgue.
According to the Police, two persons lost their lives including 24-year-old Emmanuel Mapak, while three others sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving treatment.
The Commissioner of Police urged residents to disregard what he described as false narratives of a bomb blast or crisis, warning that the spread of unverified information could heighten fear and tension in the state.
CP Mapak cautioned individuals and media platforms against disseminating unconfirmed reports, stressing the importance
Ije Ulasi is WAP’s Senior Regional Correspondent based in Eastern Nigeria. She is a seasoned journalist and writer coordinating regional events about community, the government, and politics. Ulasi's in-depth knowledge of the region and her strong network of sources allow her to provide comprehensive coverage of important issues affecting Eastern Nigeria.
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