Nine travelers have been killed following the detonation of an improvised explosive device (IED) along the Magami–Dansadau highway in Zamfara State, in what authorities describe as a bandit attack on civilian movement.
The explosion occurred on Saturday afternoon near the Yar-Gada community in Maru Local Government Area, causing panic among motorists and residents in the area.
Witnesses said the blast hit a trailer conveying passengers and farm produce, as well as motorcyclists traveling on the route. Five passengers in the trailer and four motorcycle riders reportedly died at the scene, while several others sustained injuries. One of the injured victims later died while receiving medical attention.
Confirming the incident, the Senior Special Assistant to the Zamfara State Governor on Broadcast Media and Public Affairs, Mustapha Jafaru Kaura, said the explosion was caused by an IED planted by bandits fleeing military operations in the area.
He dismissed claims that the incident resulted from an airstrike, clarifying that no aerial bombardment took place.
Officials of the Joint Task Force, Northwest Operation Fansan Yamma, also confirmed that the blast was caused by a locally planted explosive device, allegedly intended to disrupt traffic and instill fear among civilians.
The attack highlights the persistent security challenges in Zamfara and the wider North-West region, where banditry continues to pose a serious threat to lives, transportation, and economic activities despite sustained military operations.
