The Kogi State Police Command has launched an awareness campaign to educate scrap and waste dealers on the dangers of handling explosive materials.
The sensitisation, held in Lokoja on Saturday, was organised by the command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (EOD–CBRN) Base 33 in collaboration with the National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria, Kogi State chapter.
l
In a statement on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Aya, said the campaign aimed to enlighten dealers and the public on how to identify, manage, and report explosive-related materials often mistaken for scrap.
“The campaign was designed to educate scrap and waste dealers, as well as residents, on the dangers associated with handling explosive materials and the need to observe safety precautions in their daily operations,” Aya stated.
The lead facilitator, Commander of EOD Base 33, CSP Danladi Ameh, delivered a lecture to participants, highlighting the need for vigilance when dealing with metallic items that could be remnants of explosives.
“He emphasised the importance of promptly reporting suspicious objects and adhering strictly to safety protocols to prevent avoidable loss of lives and property,” Aya added.
According to the police spokesperson, participants were also trained on practical steps to recognise potential explosive devices and the proper response mechanisms to ensure public safety.
“The command remains committed to protecting all residents of the state and urges members of the public, particularly those in the scrap and waste business, to remain alert and cooperate with security agencies in preventing explosive-related incidents,” Aya said.
