Governor Nasir El-Rufai has raised the alarm that terrorists plan to launch bomb attacks against Kaduna residents.

“The Kaduna state government wishes to issue a crucial advisory to citizens across the state for alertness to the threat of explosive devices planted in public places by terrorists,” said commissioner for internal security and home affairs Samuel Aruwan in a statement on Monday.

He added, “This follows sustained assessments by security agencies and the possibility of terrorists looking to harm residents. Such public facilities include schools, hospitals, hotels, bars, entertainment centres, restaurants, parks, major roads and places of worship.”

Mr El-Rufai’s government advised residents to be vigilant over possible terrorist attacks using improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

The fear was heightened by Sunday night’s detonation of a suspected IED in the Kabala West area of Kaduna.

Mr Aruwan further stated that security agencies were working hard to avert any sinister plots across the state.

“Citizens are urged to be alert to this threat and remain watchful for suspicious packages seemingly abandoned in strategic places or persons loitering in their neighbourhood,” stated the commissioner. “Increased general awareness is strongly advised, and frequent, thorough checks of premises are recommended.”

He explained that any suspicious person or object observed in “your neighbourhood” must be immediately reported to the nearest security formation.

He charged quarry operators to enhance security at their sites and ensure that explosive materials are not readily accessible to be carted away for criminal purposes.

“Sites will be inspected regularly for compliance,” stressed Mr Aruwan.

He assured that security agencies would sustain close monitoring of the situation.

The Kaduna government also advised Kaduna residents to call the Security Operations Room via 09034000060 and 08170189999 when necessary.

(NAN)