The Lagos State Police Command has dispelled fears of terrorism or criminal activity in connection with the explosion that occurred at No. 19 Way Street, Mushin, on June 22, 2026, confirming that the incident was caused by a mechanical failure and not an Improvised Explosive Device (IED).
Speaking during a press briefing, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, said comprehensive forensic and technical investigations conducted by experts of the Nigeria Police Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Unit conclusively established that the incident was not linked to terrorism, sabotage, insurgency, or any criminal use of explosives.
CP Fatai explained that initial observations at the scene had raised concerns about a possible IED explosion, prompting security agencies to activate established protocols and subject the incident to a thorough technical investigation in line with international best practices.
According to him, a team of highly trained EOD-CBRN specialists carried out an extensive examination of the scene, including detailed assessments of the affected vehicle, analysis of recovered fragments, evaluation of damage patterns, collection of physical evidence, and interviews with relevant witnesses.
He disclosed that investigators found no traces of explosive materials, detonators, initiation systems, explosive residues, or any blast characteristics typically associated with explosive attacks.
The Commissioner further noted that the affected vehicle did not display the structural deformation, fragmentation patterns, crater effects, or displacement commonly observed in incidents involving explosives.
“The investigation established that the incident resulted from the catastrophic failure of a pressurized mechanical component outside the vehicle. This failure generated a sudden release of energy which shattered the vehicle’s front passenger-side glass panels and caused minor injuries to the occupant,” he stated.
Based on the findings, the police officially reclassified the case from a suspected IED incident to a Mechanical Explosion.
CP Fatai reassured residents of Lagos State and Nigerians generally that there is no evidence whatsoever linking the incident to terrorism or any threat to public safety, emphasizing that there is no cause for alarm.
He commended members of the public who promptly alerted security and emergency responders, noting that their swift action enabled an immediate response to the incident. He also praised emergency personnel and technical experts whose professionalism ensured a thorough and scientific investigation.
The Commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activities through established security channels, while assuring the public that all explosion-related incidents would continue to receive the highest level of professional scrutiny before conclusions are drawn.
He reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to transparency, professionalism, and factual reporting in the discharge of its constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property.
