Just in: Bandits plant explosives along Zamfara Road, kill travellers

A tragic explosion rocked the Dansadau-Gusau Road in Zamfara State, killing six people and injuring eight others.

According to reports from Channel TV, the blast, caused by explosives reportedly planted by suspected terrorists, occurred early Wednesday morning, leaving residents and passersby in shock.

Eyewitness accounts describe a harrowing scene. Gory images obtained by Channels Television show victims lying lifeless along the roadside as onlookers stood in despair. The explosives were allegedly placed by suspected bandits who have been terrorizing the region.

Abdullahi Dansadau, a local resident, recounted the incident. “This morning, a Volkswagen Golf 3 vehicle drove over a bomb, triggering an explosion. We have six dead bodies here now, and eight others sustained injuries. The vehicle was completely destroyed,” he said.

In a statement provided to Channels Television, the Coordinator of the Joint Media Coordination Centre, Joint Task Force North West Operation Hadarin Daji, Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, confirmed the attack.

He expressed condolences to the victims’ families and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to ensuring security in the area.

“We acknowledge reports of suspected bandits planting explosives along the Dansadau-Gusau Road, which have caused loss of life and destruction. The safety of our citizens remains our top priority,” he said.

Lieutenant Colonel Abdullahi also assured residents that the military is collaborating with local law enforcement to apprehend those responsible. “Our troops are actively on ground to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of commuters. An Explosives Ordnance Disposal team has been deployed to detect and neutralize any additional explosives,” he added.

The attack marks the second explosion in the area within three days, heightening fears among residents. On Monday, Channels Television reported widespread concern over the increasing use of explosives by bandits operating in the region.

Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

Meanwhile, security forces are intensifying operations to restore normalcy and prevent further attacks.