A boy was injured after an improvised explosive device (IED) went off at a gasoline station in Lamitan City, Basilan evening on Tuesday, June 18, 2024.

According to the provincial government, the boy passed by the area when the explosion happened. He sustained minor injuries.

The explosion damaged partly the cover of a fuel dispenser.

Authorities recovered parts of the IED, including a nine-volt battery, blasting caps, and powder.

Police are looking into extortion as possible motive behind the incident as the gas station owner reportedly disclosed that he received an extortion letter last month.

Governor Jim Salliman has condemned the incident and ordered security forces to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The public is urged to report suspicious individuals or baggage to authorities.