…Govt alerts residents of terrorists planting explosives in public places.
by Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The insecurity situation in Kaduna metropolitan city might have grown worse, following the explosion that rocked Kabala West, in Kaduna South local government area of the state on Sunday night.
Already, the State Government has urged residents to be alert and vigilant against the resumed incidents of explosive devices suspected to be planted in public places by terrorists.
Kaduna State Police Command on Monday confirmed that the suspected improvised explosive device (IED) occurred at about midnight in Kabala West, a suburb of Kaduna metropolis, but no casualty was recorded, from ongoing investigation into the incident.
Recalled that, bomb explosion was the order of the day under the regime of former President Goodluck Jonathan but was later contained.
Kaduna State Government in a statement issued Monday evening and signed by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr Samuel Aruwan, indicated that, the State Government wishes to issue a “crucial advisory to citizens across the state, for heightened alertness to the threat of explosive devices planted in public places by terrorists.
“This follows sustained assessments by security agencies, and the possibility of terrorists looking to harm citizens, by discreetly placing explosives in public facilities such as schools, hospitals, hotels, bars, entertainment centres, restaurants, parks, major roads and places of worship.
“Security agencies are working to ensure that no harm or destruction comes to residents and facilities.
“Citizens are, however, urged to be alive to this threat, and to remain watchful for suspicious persons loitering, or packages seemingly abandoned in strategic places. Increased general awareness is strongly advised, and frequent thorough checks of premises are recommended.
“Any suspicious person or object observed must be immediately reported to the nearest security formation. The Security Operations Room may also be contacted, on the lines 09034000060 and 08170189999.
“Quarry operators are also advised to enhance security on their sites, and to ensure that explosive materials are not readily accessible to be carted away for criminal purposes. Sites will be inspected for compliance. Close monitoring of the situation by security agencies will continue,” Aruwan warned.
However, eyewitness said the explosion, which occurred around 9:30pm around a hotel in Kabala area of the state, badly affected the hotel building, which led to cracking of its wall.
