Residents and commuters around Mando Motor Park in Kaduna were thrown into momentary panic in the early hours of Sunday following a loud explosion that initially sparked fears of a possible bomb attack.
The Kaduna State Police Command, however, swiftly moved to allay public fears, confirming that the incident was not an act of terrorism but a mechanical fault involving a gas-powered vehicle.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, the explosion occurred at about 3:00 a.m.
within the premises of Silver Luxury Travel, a transport company operating at the busy Mando Garage.
Police operatives were immediately dispatched to the scene after the report of the blast, as part of efforts to secure the area and ascertain the cause of the incident.
Preliminary findings indicated that the explosion emanated from a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered luxury bus owned by the company, contrary to widespread speculation suggesting a bomb detonation.
Investigators attributed the incident to the overfilling of the vehicle’s gas tank, which led to a pressure build-up and subsequent minor explosion.
Authorities confirmed that the affected vehicle has been removed from the park, while security personnel cordoned off the area to ensure safety and prevent further incidents.
No lives were lost and no significant damage to surrounding property was recorded, with normal activities gradually returning to the motor park shortly after the incident.
The Commissioner of Police in the state has ordered a full-scale investigation, while urging the public and media to exercise caution and verify information before dissemination to avoid causing unnecessary alarm.