By Khalid Idris Doya The Bauchi State Police Command has organised a training session for members of the National Association ...
By Khalid Idris Doya
The Bauchi State Police Command has organised a training session for members of the National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria (NASWDEN), Bauchi State chapter, on how to identify improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and other dangerous materials often mistaken for scrap metal.
Speaking during the explosive ordnance risk awareness lecture for scrap and waste dealers on Wednesday, the Commander of the Bomb Squad, DSP Sunday Ekphah, said the lecture aimed to sensitise participants on identifying suspicious metal components often used in the making of explosives.
He noted that the sensitisation campaign is part of a collaboration between the Nigeria Police Force and the national leadership of NASWDEN, being implemented across all states of the federation.
In his welcome address, the Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, commended the initiative and urged participants to apply the knowledge gained to improve safety in their operations and contribute to national security.
Represented by ACP Musa Muhammad Amadu, emphasised that awareness is crucial for people in the scrap and waste industry, warning them to maintain safe distances from suspicious objects and never attempt to handle unknown devices.
"Report any suspicious devices or items to the police or other trusted authorities for prompt and safe handling," the Commissioner advised.
He added that education and awareness are vital tools for preventing accidents and ensuring public safety.
He stressed that the sensitisation exercise underscored the importance of raising awareness about explosive ordnance risks as a vital step in preventing avoidable disasters.
The commissioner added that by understanding these dangers and adhering to safety guidelines, individuals can protect themselves and their communities from tragic incidents.
During a practical demonstration, DSP Yusuf Muhammad of Bomb Squad, advised participants to avoid buying metal scraps from unknown sources and to report unfamiliar or suspicious items to security agencies immediately.
He explained that explosive ordnance includes both military-grade weapons and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) capable of causing severe harm or destruction.
These devices, he said, come in different forms, such as Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) and IEDs, both of which pose deadly risks if mishandled.
DSP Yusuf highlighted that mishandling explosive ordnance can lead to serious injuries or death, including burns, shrapnel wounds, and long-term disabilities. Survivors often suffer psychological trauma and loss of livelihood.
He stressed the importance of collective responsibility in ensuring security, reminding participants that "Security is everybody’s business."
Referring to past incidents in Kano, Kaduna, Lagos, and Yobe, he recalled tragic cases where scavengers picked up military ordnance, mistaking them for scrap metal, which exploded and claimed lives.
"Such tragic incidents underscore the urgent need for continuous education and awareness to protect lives and property," he added.
In their remarks, NASWDEN Bauchi State Chairman, Shagari Muhammad, and Secretary, Badamasi Umar, expressed gratitude to the Bauchi Police Command for the valuable training. They pledged to step down the knowledge gained to other members of the association across the state.
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