Eleven "bandits" blown up while transporting IED in Nigeria
At least 11 people in Nigeria have died after an IED that they were transporting to carry out an attack, detonated.
The incident occurred near Babbar Doka village in the northwestern Zamfara state, "amid a resurgence of banditry and the increasing use of explosives against security forces in the state", according to Radio Nigeria.
Local sources told Radio Nigeria that the armed men - described as "suspected bandits" - were moving through a bush path on motorcycles when the device suddenly exploded with a loud blast.
"They were riding through the bush, possibly to plant the explosive against security operatives in the area. The bomb went off with a deafening sound. I am certain many of them died," a resident said.
Confirming the development, the Zamfara state commissioner of police, Ibrahim Balarabe Maikaba, said: "They were targeting operatives, and as fate would have it, it turned against them. Sustained security offensives are ongoing across the state."
He urged residents of Zamfara and neighbouring states to remain vigilant and support security agencies by reporting suspicious individuals, particularly anyone seeking medical attention for unexplained injuries.
