Several passengers are feared dead after a vehicle hit an improvised explosive device (IED) reportedly planted by bandits in Zamfara State.
According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-terrorism outlet, the explosion involved a Toyota Eagle Eye vehicle and occurred at approximately 08:32 a.m., throwing the vehicle off balance and causing panic among commuters.
The passengers were reportedly travelling from Gwashi when the device detonated.
Troops from Operation Fansan Yanma, supported by tactical units and bomb disposal experts, were immediately deployed to secure the scene, assess the damage, and conduct recovery operations. Authorities are still working to determine the precise number of casualties while searching for remnants of the explosive device.
The attack is believed to have been orchestrated by a bandit leader identified as Sadiku, who is reportedly linked to the Dogo Gide faction. Security agencies have urged travellers to avoid isolated routes and remain vigilant as operations intensify across the area.
Yazid Abubakar, the public relations officer for the Zamfara State Police Command, was not immediately available to comment on the incident.
This latest attack follows similar tragic events in the region. On December 10, a truck transporting onions from Baga to Maiduguri struck an explosive device in Lingir Village, Guzamala LGA, injuring the driver and three passengers. Just four days prior, in Bama LGA, four children were killed and another injured when an IED exploded behind the Banki motor park.
These recurring incidents highlight the growing threat posed by roadside explosives and the urgent need for heightened vigilance and security measures on affected routes.
