The Lagos state police command has intensified investigations into Monday’s explosion in Mushin, forwarding fragments recovered from the scene to Abuja for detailed forensic analysis.
Authorities said the materials were collected after a suspected Improvised Explosive Device detonated beneath a parked Toyota Sienna in Oke Mushin, injuring the vehicle owner and causing panic within the busy commercial neighbourhood.
Police sources disclosed that experts are yet to determine the exact composition of the device, stressing that forensic findings would provide clearer answers on the cause and nature of the blast.
Speaking on the development, Fatai Tijani, Lagos state commissioner of police confirmed that explosive ordnance disposal operatives had secured the area and recovered crucial evidence for further examination.
“There was an explosion. Any explosion can be linked to an IED and that is what I can tell you for now. Our operatives are still working on the materials recovered from the scene and the outcome will be made public when investigations are concluded,” he said.
Residents and traders narrated how the incident unfolded in the early hours of Monday.
A trader, who identified himself as Ebuka, said he arrived at the market to discover security operatives already on ground following the explosion.
According to him, witnesses informed him that the vehicle owner had parked overnight and was preparing to leave the area when the blast occurred.
Ogundiji, another resident said the loud sound sent shockwaves through the community, forcing many people out of their homes in fear.
“It was a terrifying sound. Many of us thought something serious had happened in the neighbourhood until we discovered it was linked to a vehicle nearby,” he said.
The force of the explosion reportedly damaged nearby structures, including a metal door, while fragments were scattered around the scene.
Security agencies have since assured residents that the area remains safe as investigations continue.