Jos Bomb Scare Dismissed by Police as False Alarm

On the morning of November 12, 2024, residents of Jos, Plateau State, were thrown into a state of panic following rumours of a bomb explosion near the bustling Terminus Market. However, the Plateau State Police Command swiftly dismissed these claims as unfounded after a thorough investigation.

Incident Overview

The alarm was triggered when reports circulated on social media about a potential Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted near the old Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH). Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud noise in the vicinity, leading many to believe there had been an explosion. Solomon Odo, an office worker nearby, recounted his experience: “The noise came from an area close to the bus terminal and the old JUTH. When we checked, we found no evidence of an explosion.”

In response to the rising fears, the Police Anti-Bomb Squad was deployed to the scene to secure the area and investigate the source of the disturbance.

Official Statements

Alfred Alabo, spokesperson for the Plateau State Police Command, confirmed that upon inspection, no explosives were found in the area. He stated, “The report received indicated a shallow dug hole that was suspected to be planted with an IED. However, our examination revealed it to be safe and free of any explosive devices.”

Gyang Bere, spokesperson for Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, echoed this sentiment, clarifying that the scare was caused by a misinterpretation of a pile of polythene bags mistaken for a threat. He urged residents to remain vigilant but assured them that there was no cause for alarm.

Community Response

Despite the police’s reassurances, the incident reignited fears among residents who remember past tragedies associated with bomb blasts in Jos. The Terminus Market has a traumatic history; in 2014, twin bombings claimed at least 118 lives. As a result, many locals are quick to react to any signs of potential danger.

Some residents expressed confusion over conflicting reports regarding whether any explosives were found at all. While official sources maintained that there were none, some individuals claimed that an explosive device had indeed been detected and removed by security personnel.

Following the police’s declaration that no explosion occurred and that normalcy had returned to the area, shops in Terminus Market reopened and activities resumed. The governor’s office has called on citizens to act responsibly and uphold the state’s reputation while remaining vigilant against genuine threats.

By Joseph Johnston,
Youth Editor,
Egogonews Hub

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