POLICE CONFIRM IMPROVISED EXPLOSIVE DEVICE EXPLOSION AT BAYELSA SECRETARIAT, ARREST SUSPECT

The Bayelsa State Police Command has confirmed a suspected Improvised Explosive Device, IED, explosion at the State Secretariat Complex in Yenagoa. The incident occurred on Wednesday morning.

In a statement signed by Mr. Musa Mohammed, the Police Public Relations Officer said Mr. Iyamah Edebor, the Commissioner of Police, led operatives of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, the Special Drone Unit, and other tactical teams to the scene.

Police say the EOD operatives swiftly secured the area and carried out a thorough search, during which one unexploded IED was discovered and safely defused.
The statement confirmed that no lives were lost and no property was destroyed in the incident.

According to the statement, a 60-year-old man, identified as Pentecost Elijah from Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, was arrested at the scene in connection with the explosion. The Police said he is currently being interrogated at the State Criminal Investigation Department and will be charged to court after investigations are concluded.
The Bayelsa state Police Command added that the situation is now under control and normalcy has been restored. It advised members of the public to remain calm and go about their lawful activities.

Reported by Bright Okpo