One person was injured on Monday after a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) detonated beneath a vehicle at the Shoe Materials Market in the Mushin area of Lagos State, causing panic among traders and residents.
Gatekeepers News reports that according to Lagos State Police Command, the explosion occurred when the owner of a vehicle attempted to start it after it had been parked overnight.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the explosive device had been planted under the passenger side of the vehicle and exploded as the engine was switched on.
Lagos Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, said Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operatives were immediately deployed to the scene, where they cordoned off the area and carried out a comprehensive search.
The police chief confirmed that only one person sustained injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment, adding that the victim’s condition was stable.
HE further disclosed that remnants of the explosive device had been recovered and sent for forensic analysis. He assured residents and traders that no additional explosives were found during the security sweep and urged the public to remain calm and continue their normal activities.
Community leaders said security agencies responded swiftly after the incident was reported in the early hours of Monday, deploying dozens of officers to secure the area and prevent further danger.
Investigations into the source and motive behind the suspected IED placement are ongoing.
