A suspected improvised explosive device (IED) detonated on today (Thursday) along the Takkalafiya–Gadar Zaima road in Bukkuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State, injuring five people and triggering an immediate security response by the police.
Confirming the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Zamfara State Command, CP Balarabe Ibrahim Maikaba, said tactical units, including the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, were promptly deployed to the area to reinforce security, assess the scene, and commence investigations aimed at restoring calm and public confidence.
Police reports revealed that the explosion occurred at about 11:30 a.m. when a motorcycle carrying five passengers ran over an explosive device believed to have been planted by bandits operating in the area. The device exploded instantly, destroying the motorcycle and leaving all the occupants with serious injuries.
Following the alert received from the residents of Zugu village, security checks were carried out. The injured victims were immediately taken to General Hospital, Gummi, for medical attention, and movement along the road was temporarily restricted.
Further updates identified the victims as Aliyu Abubakar, Ibrahim Aliyu, and Lawali Ibrahim, all males from Takkalafiya village. Medical authorities later confirmed that Lawali Ibrahim, aged 26, died while receiving treatment, while another victim was referred to a tertiary health facility in Sokoto for specialised care. The deceased was buried in line with Islamic customs.
The Zamfara State Police Command said investigations are ongoing, with security personnel maintaining a presence in the area to prevent further threats and ensure public safety.
