A suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded beneath a vehicle at the Shoe Materials Market in Mushin, Lagos, on Monday, leaving one person injured and causing panic among traders and residents.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Fatai Tijani, who addressed journalists at the scene, assured residents that the area remained safe after security operatives conducted a thorough sweep of the market.
According to Tijani, police received reports of an explosion and immediately deployed Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) experts to secure and search the area. Preliminary investigations revealed that the device had been planted beneath the passenger side of a vehicle and detonated when the engine was started.
The injured victim was rushed to a hospital and is reportedly in stable condition.
The police commissioner disclosed that no additional explosive devices were found during the operation, while remnants of the suspected IED have been recovered for forensic analysis. He urged residents and traders to remain calm and ignore rumours suggesting widespread insecurity in Lagos.
Also speaking on the incident, the Baale of Oke Mushin Community, Tajudeen Faronbi, said he received an alert about a suspicious vehicle in the early hours of Monday and immediately notified security authorities.
Faronbi praised the swift response of security operatives, noting that dozens of officers were deployed to secure the area, prevent panic, and ensure public safety.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing, while authorities continue efforts to determine the source of the explosive device and the identity of those responsible.
NAN