Six Dead, Several Injured as Explosive Device Hits Zamfara Road

At least six people have been killed, and six others were injured after an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded along the Bagega–Anka road in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

Eyewitnesses said the explosion occurred in the early hours of Thursday when a commercial vehicle conveying passengers reportedly drove over the explosive device planted on the road. The blast severely damaged the vehicle and left multiple casualties at the scene.

According to local sources, the IED was suspected to have been planted by armed bandits operating in the area, a region that has witnessed repeated attacks on highways and rural communities in recent years.

The Zamfara State Police Command has confirmed the incident. Its Public Relations Officer, DSP Yazid Abubakar, said six people were feared dead while six others sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving treatment at a nearby hospital.

Security operatives have reportedly been deployed to the area to secure the route and prevent further attacks, while investigations into the incident are ongoing.

The Bagega–Anka road has long been considered a risky route due to recurring bandit activity, with residents frequently calling for improved security presence and patrols along the highway.