There was a palpable fear yesterday morning at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) as an unattended bag at the Hajj and Cargo Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed Airport put fears in the minds of airport workers. (watch video)
The bag, which was neatly tied was said to have been abandoned at the area where pilgrims process their travelling documents. It was later taken in a bus to the international airport for departure to Saudi Arabia.
A source close to the scene of the incident told Eyes Of Lagos that the bag had been at the spot since Monday evening when some pilgrims from Lagos State arrived and processed their travel documents.
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It was gathered that the attention of the Bomb Disposal Unit of the airport was drawn to the bag who in turn brought sophisticated equipment to difuse the alleged bomb.
Reacting to the development, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria FAAN issued a statement yesterday to clarify the situation.
Part of the statement signed by the General Manager, Public Affairs, Mrs Henrietta Yakubu, read, “At about 9:30am, an unattended bag was noticed at the Hajj and Cargo terminal, after the departure of the 4th flight for the pilgrims. The Chief Security Officer of the Federal Airports Authority, Hajj and Cargo Terminal as well as the Bomb Disposal Unit were contacted and began the process of finding out the owner and the content of the bag.”
“No one claimed ownership of the bag, so the decision to blow up the bag using an explosive device was made, which in turn caused some panic amongst the second batch of intending pilgrims waiting.”
“After detonation, it was discovered that the bag contained some copies of an Islamic guide; meant for pilgrims to guide them with regards to their journey”.
“Passengers are advised to be cautious of their belongings, and ensure that all properties are securely kept .
The Authority would like to assure the general public that there was no Bomb and the Hajj and Cargo Terminal is safe, secure for flight operations.”, FAAN stated.
