One Killed, Seven Injured as IED Explosion Rocks Zamfara Highway

One person has been killed and seven others injured following the explosion of an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) along the Anka–Bagega road in Zamfara State, raising fresh concerns about security in the troubled region.

The blast, which occurred on Tuesday, reportedly struck a commercial Volkswagen Golf 3 Wagon conveying passengers from Bagega village to Anka town.

Eyewitnesses said the explosive device detonated as the vehicle was travelling along the route, killing one passenger instantly and leaving seven others with varying degrees of injuries.

The explosion also severely damaged the vehicle, causing panic among residents and commuters who frequently use the road.

The injured victims were evacuated to a primary healthcare facility in Bagega, where they are currently receiving treatment.

The latest incident comes barely a month after a similar explosion was reported on the same route, heightening fears over the increasing use of explosive devices by criminal elements operating in parts of Zamfara State.

Confirming the incident, Zamfara State Commissioner of Police, Ahmad Bello, said security agencies had responded swiftly to the scene.

According to him, a joint team of security personnel was immediately deployed to assess the situation, clear the affected area, and secure the road for motorists and residents.

The police commissioner assured the public that efforts were underway to restore normalcy and prevent further attacks along the corridor.

The incident underscores the persistent security challenges facing communities in Zamfara, where banditry, kidnappings and attacks on major transport routes have continued to threaten lives and livelihoods despite ongoing security operations.