Bauchi State Police Command has conducted training for members of the National Association of Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria and the Waste Recycling Association of Nigeria, Bauchi State Chapter, on recognising improvised explosive devices and other hazardous objects.
The Commander of the Police Bomb Squad, DSP Sunday Ekphah, speaking during the session in Bauchi on Wednesday, said the awareness programme was essential to equip waste collectors with the ability to identify metals and materials often used in making explosive devices.
He noted that the initiative resulted from a partnership between the Nigeria Police Force and the national leadership of the unions, and is currently being carried out across all states of the federation.
Representing the Commissioner of Police, Sani Ololori Aliyu, Assistant Commissioner of Police Musa Muhammad Amadu urged attendees to remain alert at scavenging sites to safeguard themselves. He warned them against purchasing metals from unidentified sources and encouraged them to report any suspicious materials to the police.
He emphasised the need for shared responsibility in protecting the nation, adding that security concerns involve everyone, and urging citizens to notify authorities about anything unusual around them.
The Chairman of the Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers Association of Nigeria praised the police for the enlightenment and promised to pass on the information received to members of the group.
Scavengers from the 20 local councils of Bauchi State were present at the training.
