The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested Mallam Adamu Ashimu, the proprietor of Tsangagyar Sani Uthman Islamiyya School in Kuchibuyi Village, Bwari Area Council, following a deadly Improvised Explosive Device (IED) explosion on the school premises on Monday.

Details of the Explosion and Casualties

The explosion, which occurred on the school veranda, resulted in the death of two visitors who were reportedly tampering with the IED. A third man and a female trader sustained severe injuries and are currently receiving treatment under police guard. According to the FCT Police spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, the police swiftly responded to a distress call from the Sarki of Kuchibuyi. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal team and the Area Commander of Kubwa led the efforts to secure the scene and protect residents.

“Upon receiving the distress call, a team of police operatives, including the command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, quickly mobilized to the scene. The area was immediately cordoned off to ensure the safety of residents and facilitate a thorough investigation,” Adeh stated.

Investigation and Suspected Source of the IED

Preliminary investigations indicated that three men from Katsina had visited Mallam Adamu Ashimu. The visitors are suspected to have brought the explosive device with them. Tragically, two of the men died while tampering with the IED. The third man and the female trader, who was nearby, were injured and are now receiving medical treatment.

The Chairman of Bwari Area Council, John Gabaya, confirmed that one person died at the scene, while three others, including a female vendor selling a local snack, were injured. Gabaya provided additional details on the incident, mentioning that the explosion occurred while the injured parties were in the vicinity, including a girl who was selling “awara,” a local snack.

Interrogation and Further Investigation

Gabaya added that he had ordered the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) to interrogate Mallam Adamu Ashimu, as some children whom he had recently brought from Katsina to the school were also affected by the explosion. “The mallam said he was the one who brought them. I asked the DPO to take him immediately, so they can interrogate him,” Gabaya explained.

Search and Rescue Efforts

The FCT Emergency Management Department also responded to the incident. Nkechi Isa, the Head of Public Affairs for the department, confirmed that search and rescue teams were deployed to the scene for further assessment and reporting on the aftermath of the explosion.

As investigations continue, the police are working to uncover the full details of the event and ensure that justice is served for the victims.