In a bold and swift operation, the Borno State Police Command has recovered eight unexploded ordnance (UXOs) in the Dala and Gwange areas of Maiduguri, quelling fears of potential hazards among residents. This commendable effort was announced by renowned security analyst and counterinsurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, on his official X handle.
The recovery mission, which showcased the vigilance and expertise of the police force, underscores the command’s unwavering dedication to public safety in the face of persistent security challenges in the region.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Borno State Police Command, ASP Grace Michael, the recoveries were made on November 22, 2024, following timely distress calls from concerned residents.
The first incident occurred at approximately 8:43 a.m. in the Dala-Abuja Talakawa area, where residents discovered a cluster of suspicious objects near an uncompleted building. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Base 13 team responded promptly. Their expert intervention led to the safe recovery of six projectiles and one unexploded mortar bomb, which were subsequently relocated to a secure site.
Later the same day, at around 1:00 p.m., another report from the Gwange area highlighted a suspicious object along the riverbank. The highly skilled EOD-CBRN unit once again deployed rapidly, recovering an unexploded hand grenade and neutralizing the potential threat.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the ordnance may have been displaced and washed ashore by recent catastrophic floods that ravaged parts of Borno State. The flooding, which disrupted lives and infrastructure, seems to have unearthed these dormant dangers, prompting a coordinated response from law enforcement authorities.
To further ensure the safety of residents, the police command has conducted Explosive Ordnance Risk Awareness (EORE) training in the affected communities. This initiative educates locals on recognizing and reporting suspicious objects, empowering them to actively contribute to their safety.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Yusufu Mohammed Lawal, lauded the swift actions of the EOD-CBRN team and reassured residents of the command’s steadfast commitment to their protection. He emphasized the importance of vigilance and urged the public to report any suspicious objects or activities through the command’s emergency hotlines: 0806 807 5581 and 0802 347 3293.
“This operation underscores our commitment to safeguarding lives and property in Borno State,” CP Lawal stated. “We encourage all residents to remain calm and vigilant while maintaining active communication with security agencies.”
The successful recovery of these UXOs not only highlights the professionalism of the Borno State Police Command but also reflects the critical role of community cooperation in addressing security challenges. In a region where insurgency has long disrupted normalcy, such collaborative efforts are a testament to resilience and a shared determination to build a safer future.
Residents of Dala and Gwange can now breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that potential dangers have been averted and proactive measures are in place to prevent future risks.
PIONEER NEWS 