Last Suspects Of Nigeria’s 50th Independence Day Bomb Blast Arrested

Oct 12, 2011 – Last Suspects Of Nigeria’s 50th Independence Day Bomb Blast Arrested

The State Security Service (SSS) have arrested three men allegedly linked to the October 1 2010 Independence Day bomb attack with key evidences they say would lead to the conviction of all suspects.

The last key suspect, though unnamed, was arrested on October 9; one year after the twin explosions ripped through a location less than two kilometres from Eagle Square, venue of Nigeria’s Golden jubilee independent anniversary, killing 14 people.

Following the incident, the SSS declared four people wanted for masterminding the blast. Henry Okah, the main suspect was also arrested and is facing trial in South Africa. One of the recently arrested suspects was among those declared wanted then.

“The suspect was eventually traced to a neighbouring country and subsequently arrested on 9 October 2011 in Lagos,” said Marylyn Ogar, spokesperson of the SSS.

One of the arrested suspects is believed to be one Chima Orlu who was also declared wanted by the police three days after the blast, a source said.

“He is alleged to be an expert in IEds, and was a key figure in the October blast as he procured all the explosive devices used; packaged and wired the vehicles, and finally moved them from Port Harcourt to Abuja for final placement at the points of detonation,” said Ogar.

Also arrested is a banker who allegedly handled the financial transactions for Henry Okah, particularly for the March 15 and October 1, 2010, car bombings in Warri, Delta State and Abuja (FCT) respectively.

“He was also responsible for fund transfers to other suspects, to facilitate gun running activities in the creek,” said Ogar.

The third suspect was arrested on October 3, and is said to be a key figure in the distribution of arms and ammunition to militants and other components that were used for the bombing.

The three suspects are to be charged alongside four others who have since been commuted to prison custody.