Bomb found in Ozamiz terminal

OZAMIZ CITY -- Local police have successfully detonated Tuesday an improvised explosive device (IED) found inside a bus at this city’s integrated terminal.

SPO3 Wilfredo Pelare, team leader of the explosives and ordnance disposal unit, told reporters the bomb was placed inside a cellophane bag. It was composed of one-half kilo TNT, a blasting cap and other unknown substances.

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He said the bomb was discovered by security guard Serafin Maisa during a routine check on Rural Transit aircon bus number 902, which arrived from Pagadian City around 10:00 a.m.

Maisa said he discovered the unattended and unclaimed bag.

Mindful of the people’s safety, Maisa said he immediately brought the bag several meters away from the people and reported the incident to the nearby 1005th Provincial Mobile Group of the Philippine National Police.

When they arrived, Pelare’s team detonated the bomb right where Maisa placed it.

Pelare said the volume of explosive material contained in the bomb has the capability to exact great damage to property and lives.

No one has claimed responsibility for planting the bomb which happened just four days after the start of the campaign for local candidates and amid a supposedly tight security measures owing to the gun ban.

Ten years ago, 39 people were killed when two incendiary bombs ripped off two buses on board the ferry M/V Our Lady of Mediatrix, which was about to dock at the city’s port.