Updates on Abuja blast: Police confirm 21 dead

Twenty one persons have been confirmed dead and another 17 injured in a bomb explosion that hit Emab Plaza, in Wuse 2, Abuja, Wednesday, police have said.

The blast occurred at the busy plaza at about 4p.m. local time, setting off a huge fire.

Authorities say the explosion went off after bombers riding on a motorcycle hauled an explosive device towards the shopping mall. The explosion destroyed 17 cars, Mr. Mba said.

There are indications the casualty figures will rise. At the Maitama hospital were victims were rushed to, the medical director confirmed that 35 injured and 12 bodies were received.

General Hospital, Garki, has also confirmed receiving seven injured victims of the attack.

The police spokesperson, Mr. Mba, said a lone suspect has been arrested in connection to the blast. He said security has been intensified around the capital following the attack.

The bomb attack is the third to hit Abuja, the Nigerian capital in two months, following one in blast apiece in April and May. The two attacks were carried out by the extremist Boko Haram sect.