The Edo State Police Command has alerted the public of what it described as a disturbing crime trend involving anonymous callers threatening individuals, business owners, and corporate organizations in the State, with claims that explosive devices have been planted within their premises.
It said after the fake alert, the callers usually demand money, threatening to detonate the alleged explosives if their demands were not met.
According to a statement by the State Police Command’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, the emerging trend was a clear attempt at extortion through fear and intimidation which security agencies were already actively investigating reported cases.
Eno Ikoedem has, however, urged the public not to panic or succumb to any financial demands from such callers, as the Command boasts of a competent Explosive Ordinance Department capable of detecting explosives and deactivating same.
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The Edo State Police spokesman further appeals to residents to Immediately report all such calls or messages to the nearest police station or directly to the Command’s Control Room, as well as avoid the circulation of unverified information or creating unnecessary panic within the community and to remain vigilant and report any suspicious persons, objects, or movements around their environment.
The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has directed the deployment of specialized units, including the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD ) team, Intelligence Bureau, and Tactical Teams, to promptly respond to all reported threats and ensure public safety while the Command is also working closely with telecommunication service providers and relevant security agencies to track down and apprehend those behind these criminal acts.
(Editor: Ken Eseni)
