Pan!c in Ondo as loud b!ast near bank triggers stamp£de
Panic in Ondo as loud blast near bank triggers stampede
A sudden explosion near a commercial bank in Owo, Ondo State, triggered panic on Saturday, forcing residents, traders, and motorists to flee the area in confusion.
The loud blast, which erupted close to the busy banking district, sent traders abandoning their stalls as light smoke rose briefly from the scene.
The commotion heightened public anxiety, especially as it occurred less than two weeks after the Department of State Services issued an alert warning of potential coordinated attacks by suspected ISWAP operatives in parts of Ondo and Kogi states.
But the Ondo State Police Command later clarified that the incident was not linked to terrorism.
Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, said officers who arrived at the scene determined that the noise was caused by a high-powered firecracker.
He confirmed that a man identified as Ayoola Daniel Ojumu had been arrested after allegedly confessing to purchasing the device from a nearby shop.
A second person, believed to have set off the explosive, is currently being hunted by investigators.
“The disturbance was caused by a banger bought from a shop close to the scene. We have arrested one Ayoola Daniel Ojumu, who has admitted his involvement,” Ayanlade said.
He noted that the suspect will face prosecution upon the conclusion of investigations.
The police command urged parents and guardians to caution their children as the festive season approaches, warning that anyone caught compromising public safety would be decisively dealt with.
Ayanlade also advised residents to stay vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities.
