The Borno State Police Command has neutralised an unexploded ordnance discovered beneath a telecommunications mast in Maiduguri, averting what authorities described as a potential threat to public safety.
The device was found on Monday at Chuskon, Federal Low Cost Area of the Borno State capital, following a report received by the Divisional Police Officer of the ITE Police Division.
Confirming the incident in a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, said operatives of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal–Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Base 13 were immediately deployed to the scene.
“The Borno State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Naziru Abdulmajid, recorded another operational success with the recovery of an unexploded ordnance in Maiduguri, thereby averting a possible explosion and danger to lives and property,” Daso said.
He explained that the suspected device was discovered at about 11:06am beneath a network mast, prompting swift action by the command.
“Upon receiving the report, the Commissioner of Police directed the EOD-CBRN team to mobilise to the area. The team promptly cordoned off the location and, in line with standard operating procedures, successfully rendered the device safe,” he added.
According to the police, preliminary findings showed that the ordnance, which had two exposed wires, was deliberately positioned to cause serious damage. Items recovered at the scene included a hand plier, a T-shirt and a pair of shoes.
Following the operation, the command conducted safety sensitisation within the community, urging residents to remain alert and promptly report suspicious objects or movements.
Daso noted that the Commissioner of Police had also instructed all Divisional Police Officers across the state to step up patrols and strengthen security around critical infrastructure, particularly communication facilities.
“The command remains fully committed to the protection of lives and property. Although investigations are ongoing, the situation has been brought under control and normal activities have resumed in the area,” he said.
