No fewer than nine people were killed on Saturday after two suspected improvised explosive devices went off on Magami–Dansadau highway in Maru LGA of Zamfara State.
Gatekeepers News reports that the explosions occurred along the busy road linking Maikogo and Mai’ayaya communities, an area frequently used by motorists, traders, and residents travelling between rural settlements.
Security sources said the devices were believed to have been planted by suspected bandits operating in the area.
Reports indicated that the first explosion hit two motorcycles moving along the road, killing four persons on the spot. Moments later, a second blast occurred nearby, damaging a trailer and leading to the deaths of about five other victims.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, panic broke out after the explosions, forcing several vehicles to stop abruptly. In the confusion, a woman reportedly fell from a moving vehicle and was later run over by another vehicle, resulting in her death.
Confirming the incident, the Zamfara State Police Command spokesperson, Yazid Abubakar, said the circumstances surrounding the explosions were still unclear.
He said investigations had already begun to determine the exact cause and those responsible, adding that a detailed statement would be released after preliminary findings.
The attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents linked to banditry and insurgency in the North-West. Zamfara has remained one of the states worst affected by roadside attacks, kidnappings, and the use of explosives targeting travellers and security forces.
The incident occurred only days after the United States carried out precision air strikes on terrorist hideouts in neighbouring Sokoto State, following intelligence on militant movements in the region.
In recent weeks, residents of Zamfara have raised concerns over the increasing use of improvised explosive devices on highways.
About two weeks ago, several travellers were seriously injured when an IED detonated on the Gurusu–Gwashi road in Bukkuyum Local Government Area.
Security agencies have repeatedly warned motorists to exercise caution on major routes in the state, as efforts continue to dismantle armed groups operating across Zamfara’s vast forest areas.
