The Kano State Police Command has confirmed that the explosion that rocked the eastern bypass area of the state on Saturday was caused by an Unexploded Ordnance (UXO), and not an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) as earlier feared.
The blast, which occurred at Yongxing Steel Company in Mariri Quarters around 11:30 AM, tragically claimed five lives and left several others injured. This clarification came after a detailed post-blast probe by the Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal – Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Unit.
Providing insight into the incident, the Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, Hussaini Abdullahi, explained that the UXOs had been unknowingly transported with a consignment of scrap metals from Yobe State.
He revealed that one of these dangerous items accidentally detonated during the offloading process at the steel company premises. “The explosion came from an Unexploded Ordnance (UXO), not from an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) as was initially speculated,” Abdullahi emphasized.
In the wake of the tragedy, the police EOD team swung into action and successfully recovered a total of nine UXOs from the site — seven were found immediately, while two additional devices were later discovered. The Command assured residents that the situation is under control and urged the public to remain calm. “There is no imminent security threat, so people should avoid unnecessary panic,” Abdullahi said.
The State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, extended heartfelt condolences to the families who lost loved ones in the explosion. He also wished those injured a speedy recovery, disclosing that they are receiving medical attention at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital. The CP praised the swift response of emergency teams and called for public vigilance.
Residents were encouraged to continue their normal activities without fear. The Command also appealed to citizens to assist security agencies by reporting any suspicious objects or activities promptly. Emergency contact numbers were shared to aid swift reporting and response in case of future concerns.
The incident has highlighted the hidden dangers that could lurk within scrap materials transported across states. Authorities have called for greater caution and tighter monitoring of such materials to prevent future tragedies. The police assured the public of their commitment to maintaining peace and security across Kano.
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