A suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated beneath a parked vehicle at the popular Shoe Materials Market in Mushin, Lagos, leaving one person injured and triggering panic among traders and residents.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, confirmed the incident while addressing journalists at the scene on Monday.
He assured the public that the situation had been swiftly brought under control and that the area remains safe.
According to Tijani, the police received a distress alert about an explosion and immediately deployed Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operatives to the location.
The area was promptly cordoned off and subjected to a thorough security sweep.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the explosive device had been planted under the passenger side of a vehicle and detonated when the engine was ignited.
“One individual sustained injuries from the explosion and has been taken to the hospital. We are pleased to report that the victim is currently in stable condition,” Tijani stated.
Inside Lagos:
Lagos mourns senior police officer’s death
Lagos Launches ‘Operation BioShield’ Over Ebola Fears
Lagos Expands Real Estate Oversight With New Satellite Offices
Lagos Teacher’s Arrest Sparks Outrage Among Colleagues
Police Arrest 26 Foreign Nationals After Alleged False Kidnap Report in Lagos
He further disclosed that no additional explosive devices were discovered after an extensive search of the vicinity.
Remnants of the IED have been recovered and sent for forensic analysis as investigations continue.
The police chief urged residents and business owners in the area to remain calm and disregard unverified reports suggesting widespread insecurity in Lagos.
Reinforcing the response efforts, the Baale of Oke Mushin Community, Tajudeen Faronbi, recounted that the suspicious vehicle was first noticed in the early hours of the morning.
“Residents observed something unusual about the vehicle and alerted authorities. Security operatives responded swiftly, deploying dozens of officers to secure the environment and prevent escalation,” he said.
Faronbi noted that the quick intervention by security agencies helped avert what could have resulted in a larger crisis.
Authorities have yet to determine the ownership of the vehicle or those responsible for planting the explosive device.
The Lagos State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, warning criminal elements to steer clear of the state.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
About The Author
