By Tina Amanda
The Rivers State Police Command says it’s intensifying to apprehend culprits involved in the explosion at the All-Peoples Party (APP) secretariat, Tombia Extension, GRA Phase 2, Port Harcourt, on 12 August 2024.
In a press statement issued by the Command Spokesperson SP Grace Iringe-Koko, said the Command received a distress call regarding the incident.
“In the early hours of August 12, 2024, at around 12:30 am, a loud explosion was reported at the All-Peoples Party (APP) secretariat on Tombia Extension, GRA Phase 2, Port Harcourt.
“Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, CP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, immediately mobilized a team of tactical units and experts from the Explosives Ordinance Disposal (EOD/Anti-Bomb) Squad to the scene. The area was cordoned off, and Explosive Ordinance Disposal Procedures and search operations commenced.
“EOD experts identified a crater in front of the building where the device was placed, causing significant shockwaves that damaged the windows and doors. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a car parked near the secretariat, with two men alighting from the vehicle, igniting the suspected device, and throwing it at the building before driving off.
“The explosion caused damage to the front of the building but fortunately did not result in any loss of life. Samples from the site have been taken for further forensic investigation, and the police are intensifying efforts to apprehend the suspects involved.
In a related incident, the Command disclosed that the suspect from the previous explosion of June 25, 2024, along the Port Harcourt – Aba Expressway has been identified as Preye Josiah, alias Metusah, a 40-year-old native of Kabiama Community, Sagbama LGA. Preye, who was seriously injured and has been undergoing treatment, was on the police wanted list for his role in high-profile bank robberies led by Daniel Gogo, alias Full Payment, between 2012 and 2016.
“Preye, identified as the dynamite expert of the gang, has confirmed that the explosion was caused by dynamite. He is a member of the Vikings Confraternity. Efforts to arrest other suspects involved in the crime are ongoing.
“Preye, who has undergone three major surgeries, is recovering and will soon be charged in court upon the completion of investigations”.
Commissioner Disu however urged the public to remain vigilant in such cases and to avoid the vicinity of any explosion, as there may be additional devices present. In the event of an explosion or suspicion of one, the public is advised to contact the police at 08036219523 or 08032003514.
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