Tina Amanda
Normalcy has returned to the Mile 3 Motor Park, Diobu, Port Harcourt local government area of Rivers state, after an explosion suspected to be dynamite detonated this morning 31 May 2021, at about 6: 20 am, inside the park.
Our correspondent who visited the explosion scene at the Motor Park reports that normalcy has returned as traders and commercial vehicle operators are seen carrying out their activities peacefully.
A member of the National Union Road Transport Workers Mile 3 Motor Park, Moses Uche-Oma, who spoke to our correspondent narrated that the explosion came from a bag of fish offloaded by a female trader at the park.
“Actually it exploded when traders were bringing in their goods into the park, we found out it happened when a lady dropped a bag of fish she was carrying. We suspect the explosive was inside the bag without her knowing. Maybe the fishermen mistakenly left the explosive device in the fish bag after fishing, we did not see anyone throw dynamite as speculated.
“The explosion caused people to scamper for safety and some persons sustained injuries on the process. The Police were also there to ascertain what really happened.
“Everybody is going about their business peacefully for the day, calm has returned to the park there is no more panic”
He however urged traders and commercial vehicles operators in Mile 3 Park, to be vigilant and be on the lookout for any movement that may pose danger.
Meanwhile, The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the explosion incident that occurred at the Mile 3 Motor Park, Diobu, Port Harcourt Local government.
Spokesperson of the Command, SP Nnamdi Omoni, in a press statement said the explosive was a locally fabricated Dynamite, which exploded when one Mrs Ifemia Aloke, popularly known as ‘ mama Joy’ opened her fish shop, inflicting injuries on her son and one other young lady who are currently receiving medical attention, stating that no life was lost in the incident.
The statement said Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) was immediately dispatched to the scene to sweep and render the entire Market safe.
The statement further said that the Commissioner of Police, CP Eboka Friday has ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident with a view to ascertaining the cause of the explosion and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The statement reassured the public that the State is generally calm and they should go about their lawful activities uninterrupted and without fear of molestation from any quarters.
