Suspected Bandits Use IED to Blow Up Cement Trailer in Zamfara

Suspected Bandits Use IED to Blow Up Cement Trailer in Zamfara

An improvised explosive device (IED) allegedly planted by suspected bandits has destroyed a cement-laden trailer along the Gusau–Funtua highway in Zamfara, heightening fears over the growing use of explosives by criminal groups in north-west Nigeria.

The IED explosion occurred in the early hours of Wednesday at Ungwar Mai Chida, when the trailer, travelling from Kaduna to Sokoto, reportedly ran over an explosive device concealed on the road. Eyewitnesses said the blast was loud and forceful, blowing off the trailer, scattering debris across the highway and causing a major traffic gridlock on the busy route linking Gusau and Funtua.

Although no lives were lost, the driver reportedly sustained injuries and was rescued alive, while commuters and residents around the area were thrown into panic. Traffic movement was temporarily halted as security operatives worked to secure the scene and clear the road.

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Residents disclosed that the incident occurred only hours after a joint operation by security agencies reopened the Kucheri–Danjibga–Keta road in Tsafe Local Government Area, which had remained closed for more than a month due to earlier threats of IED attacks. The timing of the explosion has raised concerns that armed groups may be replanting explosives shortly after security clearances.

Confirming the development, the Commissioner of Police in the state said combined tactical teams of the Nigeria Police Force and the military, including Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units, had earlier detected and safely detonated several IEDs along the same axis before the road was reopened. He noted that clearance and surveillance operations have now been intensified to prevent further attacks and ensure the safety of commuters.

Security agencies have urged motorists to exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel, and report suspicious objects or movements along highways, as investigations into the incident continue.

Zamfara State remains one of the flashpoints of banditry and rural insecurity in north-west Nigeria. While attacks in the past largely involved shootings, kidnappings and cattle rustling, security sources say the increasing deployment of IEDs signals a dangerous escalation that poses serious risks to road users, commercial transporters and security personnel.

Suspected Bandits Use IED to Blow Up Cement Trailer in Zamfara