An explosion has rocked part of the popular Mile three market in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, injuring two persons.
The incident is reported to have occurred around 6:30 am on Monday leaving some people injured.
Confirming the report, the Police Public Relations Officer in Rivers State, Nnamdi Omoni said “a locally fabricated dynamite, exploded when one Mrs Ifemia Aloke, popularly known as ‘ Mama Joy’ opened her fish shop, inflicting injuries on her son and one other young lady.”
He said the two survivors are receiving medical attention and that no life was lost in the incident.
The Rivers State Police Spokesperson added that normal trading activities have resumed at the Mile 3 market after “the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) was immediately dispatched to the scene to sweep and render the entire Market safe.”
The Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Eboka Friday “has ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident with a view to ascertaining the cause of the explosion and bringing the perpetrators to justice”.
The CP has also reassured residents of the state to continue with their daily activities without fear of molestation from any quarters as the command is capable of protecting lives and properties.
The Police statement did not attribute the incident to anyone or group. No person or group has also claimed responsibility.
SEE BELOW THE POLICE STATEMENT:
The Rivers State Police Command can confirm that there was an explosion this morning at the Mile 3 Market in the Port Harcourt Local Government Area of the State
A locally fabricated Dynamite, exploded when one Mrs Ifemia Aloke, popularly known as ‘ mama Joy’ opened her fish shop, inflicting injuries on her son and one other young lady who are currently receiving medical attention. No life was lost in the incident.
The Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) was immediately dispatched to the scene to sweep and render the entire Market safe. Normal trading activities resumed immediately.
In the meantime, the Commissioner of Police, CP Eboka Friday has ordered a full scale investigation into the incident with a view to ascertaining the cause of the explosion and bringing the perpetrators to justice. He wishes to reassure the good people of the State that the State is generally calm and they should go about their lawful activities uninterrupted and without fear of molestation from any quarters.
SP Nnamdi Omoni (anipr)
Police Public Relations Officer
For: Commr.of Police
Rivers State Command
Port Harcourt.
