At least 11 suspected bandits have died after an improvised explosive device accidentally went off while they were reportedly transporting it for an attack in Zamfara State.
The incident took place near Babbar Doka village in the Dansadau Emirate of Maru Local Government Area, as banditry surges and explosives are increasingly used against security forces in the region.
According to locals, the suspects were navigating bush paths on motorcycles when the device unexpectedly detonated.
“They were moving through the bush, possibly to plant the explosive against security operatives. The bomb went off with a deafening sound,” residents reported.
Confirming the event, Zamfara State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Balarabe Maikaba, explained that the IED exploded prematurely and that the attackers had been planning to target security personnel.
He added, “As fate would have it, the device turned against them. Sustained security offensives are ongoing across the state.”
The commissioner also urged residents of Zamfara and neighboring states to stay alert and assist security agencies by reporting any suspicious individuals, particularly those seeking medical attention for unexplained injuries.
