Nigerian Police Headquarters Bombed by Suicide Bomber

Two people, including a suicide bomber, have died in an explosion that rocked Nigeria’s police headquarters in its capital, Abuja.

Olusola Amore, national police spokesman, said the radical Muslim sect known as Boko Haram is to blame for the blast. The attack, in the parking lot of the headquarters, destroyed many vehicles. A vast plume of smoke could be seen for miles. The actual police headquarters building was not harmed during the attack.

Lately, Boko Haram has been increasing its attacks on different security targets. The group claimed to be behind a series of attacks that took place after the inauguration of President Goodluck Jonathan last month. On Tuesday, Nigeria’s police chief promised to deal with the group by sending more troops and equipment to the north of the country, but this statement seemed to only anger the group, leading to the attack.

Amore stated that the blast killed the suicide bomber and a traffic warden, who was directing the driver where to park. Seven people were also injured, but were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. They have been discharged. Police have recovered the bodies and have launched a full investigation.

Over the last year, Nigeria has experienced a rise in bomb attacks in public areas, however, until this attack, suicide bombings have been unheard of in the country.

Photo: VoA News