Several feared dead as police confirm IED explosion on Dansadau–Magami road in Zamfara

The Zamfara State Police Command has confirmed an improvised explosive device (IED) explosion along the Dansadau–Magami Road, which occurred on Saturday.

The police said the incident was reported by the officer in charge of the Magami outstation. According to Yazid Abubakar, the state Police Public Relations Officer, the explosion occurred at about 2:30 pm on December 27, 2025, at Maikogo village in Maru Local Government Area.

Abubakar said an object suspected to be an IED, allegedly planted by unknown persons, detonated at the location. The blast destroyed a trailer and reportedly killed several persons, including motorcycle riders who were at the scene at the time.

He noted that the exact number of casualties had yet to be confirmed, adding that security operatives had been deployed to secure the area, prevent further incidents, and ascertain the full extent of the damage.

According to the police spokesperson, preliminary investigations have commenced, with relevant units, including explosive ordnance experts, already on the ground to assess the situation.

The command urged members of the public to remain calm and vigilant, and to promptly report any suspicious objects or movements to the nearest police station or security agency, assuring that updates would be provided as investigations continue.

Residents of the area, however, suspect the device may have been planted by bandits, citing the long history of banditry and violent attacks along the route.

Videos circulating on social media show travellers fleeing the scene in panic, with several vehicles abandoned along the highway.

The latest incident adds to a series of attacks on the Yar’Tasha–Dansadau corridor. A similar explosion in December 2024 killed six persons and injured eight others.

Security analysts say the use of explosive devices by bandits marks a troubling escalation in the region’s insecurity.

Culled from Business Day