Police warn FCT residents to be alert as bomb explosion kills two in school
The police in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja have confirmed that two persons died while two others were injured when a bomb exploded at the Tsangagyar Sani Uthman Islamiyya School, located in Kuchibuyi Village, Kubwa, Byazhin area of Abuja.
The FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, who confirmed the incident in a statement on Monday said the bomb explosion occurred on Monday at approximately 11am.
Adeh said that upon receiving a distress call from the Sarki of Kuchibuyi, a team of police operatives, including the Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team and the Area Commander of Kubwa, swiftly mobilised to the scene.
“The area was immediately cordoned off to protect residents and facilitate a thorough investigation.
“During the rescue operation, victims were promptly evacuated and rushed to the Hospital for medical attention.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that three men from Katsina had visited the owner of the Islamic school, Mallam Adamu Ashimu. The three visitors are suspected of having brought the explosive device with them,” Adeh said.
According to the police spokesperson, “Tragically, two of the men died in the explosion while tampering with the improvised explosive device (IED), on the school Veranda, while the third man and a female trader sustained severe injuries and are currently receiving treatment under police guard.”
She said the FCT Bomb Squad confirmed that it was an IED explosion, as remnants of the device have been recovered.
“Mallam Adamu Ashimu, the owner of the school, has been taken into custody for questioning, and further findings will be communicated in due course.
“The Commissioner of Police, FCT, CP Olatunji Disu urges members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, behaviour, or items that may resemble improvised explosive devices to the police via our emergency numbers.”
Adeh, who issued safety advice for residents of the FCT asked the residents to stay alert, be aware of their surroundings and report any unusual behavior or items to the authorities.
“Do Not Touch Suspicious Objects: If you encounter any suspicious items, do not touch or attempt to move them. Instead, call the police immediately.
“Emergency Numbers: Keep emergency contact numbers handy and ensure your family members are aware of them.
“Community Vigilance: Collaborate with your neighbours to maintain a safe environment.”