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Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Powerful bomb found in Pikit bus terminal
By Ben O. Tesiorna
DAVAO CITY -- An improvised explosive device was successfully disarmed by the authorities in Pikit, North Cotabato, Sunday afternoon.
The Kidapawan City Explosive Ordinance Detection Team (EODT) led by Army Technical Sergeant Nestor Atienza successfully defused the bomb that was recovered at around 5 p.m. in a crowded public terminal in Pikit.
The remote-controlled device was placed inside a red, thin plastic bag and left at the door of one of the sari-sari stores inside the terminal.
First to arrive at the area were elements of the Army's 40th Infantry Battalion, who immediately cordoned the area after confirming reports of the suspicious package.
Within two hours, the explosive was successfully disarmed by the EODT.
Atienza said they were able to open the explosive device using a water disruptor, enabling them to see and assess the items inside the package.
"It was totally armed. Two 60 mm mortars were attached to the device. This could harm thousands and damage millions worth of properties. We managed to disarm it in time," Atienza said.
Army 602nd Brigade Commander Colonel Ruperto Pabustan said they have yet to identify the suspects.
"We, at the 602nd Brigade along with the EODT, 40th IB and the Cotabato Anti-Crime Joint Task Force are currently conducting intensified investigation so as to identify and file appropriate charges against the perpetrators," Pabustan said. (Sun.Star Davao/Sunnex)
(April 19, 2006 issue)
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