By DESMOND EJIBAS

The Police Command in Rivers, says that two persons have been taken in for questioning in connection with the explosion that occurred at the Trans-Niger Pipeline in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area of the state.

SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the command’s Spokesperson, told journalists in Port Harcourt on Tuesday that this is to ascertain whether the incident involved sabotage.

Iringe-Koko stated that the incident, which took place at midnight on Monday, damaged the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) pipeline that transported crude oil to the Bonny Termin’l, a key crude oil export facility.

According to her, the explosion was detected by security operatives during a routine patrol in the area.

“Operatives observed the incident and immediately alerted SPDC management. SPDC quickly initiated necessary safety protocols, including shutting down the affected pipeline.

“The situation is now under control, and there is no further threat to residents or the environment,” she said.

Iringe-Koko noted that investigations were ongoing to determine the cause of the explosion and assess the extent of the damage.

“The command remains committed to ensuring that those responsible for this crime are identified and brought to justice,” Iringe-Koko said.

The police spokesperson urged residents of the area to remain calm and vigilant, saying, “the command is commitment to public safety.”

She also called on residents of the state to report any security concern through the police emergency numbers: 08032003514 and 08098880134.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the explosion occurred amid escalating political tensions over the ongoing impeachment plot against Gov. Siminalayi Fubara and his Deputy, Ngozi Odu.

It would also be recalled that some militant groups recently threatened to attack pipelines in the Niger Delta in response to the Supreme Court’s judgement which withheld revenue allocations to Rivers. (Adapted from a NAN report)