In a significant development following a dynamite explosion that occurred near the Hotel Presidential in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, authorities have identified the primary suspect as 40-year-old Preye Josiah. The Rivers State Police Command has announced plans to prosecute Josiah, who sustained severe injuries during the explosion, including the loss of one hand.
According to a statement released by police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko, Josiah has undergone three surgeries at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital since the incident. The explosion took place amid a protest concerning the tenure of local government chairmen, causing panic and significant disruption in the area.
In the immediate aftermath of the explosion, the state government took precautionary measures by alerting hospitals to be on the lookout for any patients presenting with explosion-related injuries. Within 24 hours, the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital reported the admission of Josiah, who was brought in unconscious by associates. He was placed in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to the severity of his injuries.
Further investigations by the police revealed that Josiah is not only linked to the explosion but is also a member of the notorious cult group known as the Vikkings. He has been on the police’s wanted list for his involvement in a series of high-profile bank robberies in Bayelsa State between and during which significant weapons and ammunition were confiscated by law enforcement.
In a comprehensive statement, Iringe-Koko described Josiah’s criminal history, noting his role as a dynamite expert for a gang led by an individual known as Daniel Gogo, alias “Full Payment.” This gang was responsible for numerous robberies that resulted in the seizure of firearms and explosives. Josiah’s identification as the perpetrator of the dynamite explosion has raised concerns about the potential for further criminal activity.
“The suspect, Preye Josiah, also known as Metusah, has made a substantial recovery after undergoing extensive medical treatment,” Iringe-Koko stated. “He will soon be charged in a competent court of law once the investigation is concluded.”
The Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, urged the public to remain vigilant in the event of future explosions, warning that there may be additional explosive devices in the vicinity of such incidents. He emphasized the importance of public safety and encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activities to the police through established communication channels.
In a related incident, Iringe-Koko reported that the police have intensified their investigation into a separate explosion that occurred at the secretariat of the Action Peoples Party (APP) in the new GRA area of Port Harcourt on August 19. Preliminary findings from the anti-bomb unit indicated that the explosion created a crater in front of the building and shattered glass windows and doors.
Eyewitness accounts described two men exiting a parked vehicle, igniting an explosive device, and throwing it at the APP secretariat before fleeing the scene. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties, but the damage to the property was significant. Forensic samples from the explosion site have been collected for further analysis, and police operatives are working diligently to apprehend those responsible for this act of violence.
As investigations continue into both incidents, the Rivers State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of the community, actively pursuing leads and working to prevent further acts of violence. The situation underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in dealing with organized crime and the use of explosives in criminal activities within the region.