The Plateau State Police Command has clarified that reports of a bomb explosion near Murtala Muhammed Way in Jos are false.
The clarification came after a bomb scare on Monday morning, which led to restricted vehicle movement as security personnel investigated the area.
Residents reported a possible threat after a suspicious hole was discovered near the Old JUTH (Jos University Teaching Hospital) fence.
However, in a quick response, the Plateau State Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, ordered the deployment of the Anti-Bomb Squad to examine the site.
A statement from DSP Alabo Alfred, the spokesperson for the Plateau State Police Command, said: “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 Murtala Mohammed Way beside Old JUTH fence which created panic among the residents of the State.
“Upon receiving this report, the command immediately ordered the Area Commander Metro and the Officer in Charge of the Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit aka *Anti-Bomb Squad* to mobilize a team of bomb technicians to the scene in collaboration with the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), “C” Division to assess the situation and take necessary actions.
“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 Plateau State Commissioner of Police 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. He therefore urges them to go about their normal business activities without fear, as the area is safe and free of any threats to lives and properties, the command added.”