February 16, (THEWILL) — Police authorities in Zamfara State have confirmed that no fewer than 11 suspected bandits were killed when an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated while they were allegedly transporting it for an attack.
The incident occurred near Babbar Doka village in the Dansadau Emirate of Maru Local Government Area, amid a resurgence of banditry and the increasing use of explosives against security forces in the state.
Confirming the development, the Zamfara State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Balarabe Maikaba, said the IED exploded prematurely while the suspects were moving through the area, reportedly with the intention of targeting security operatives.
“As fate would have it, the device turned against them. Sustained security offensives are ongoing across the state”, the commissioner stated.
He urged residents of Zamfara and neighbouring states to remain vigilant and support security agencies by reporting suspicious movements, particularly individuals seeking medical attention for unexplained injuries.
Sources told our correspondent that the suspected bandits were travelling on motorcycles through bush paths when the device went off.
“They were moving through the bush, possibly to plant the explosive against security operatives. The bomb went off with a deafening sound”, a resident said.
Tunde Omolehin is an award-winning Journalist with prose in investigative and storytelling that is connecting the dots between the under-reported communities and policymakers to ensure good governance and accountability.
