Four people have lost their lives, and four others sustained injuries after an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated beneath a commercial vehicle in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State.
The explosion occurred on Wednesday, March 19, at approximately 2:30pm when a Golf 3 vehicle, driven by Wakil Fari, was travelling from Kimba to Biu town.
According to intelligence sources cited by Zagazola Makama, an counter-insurgency expert in the Lake Chad region, the IED exploded as the vehicle reached Sabon Garin, Kimba junction.
“The vehicle stepped on the IED upon reaching Sabon Garin, Kimba junction, leading to a massive explosion,” the publication reported.
The blast resulted in the immediate deaths of four passengers, while four others sustained varying degrees of injuries. The injured were swiftly transported to General Hospital Biu for medical attention.
“Four other passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries and were immediately taken to General Hospital Biu for treatment,” Zagazola Makama quoted sources as saying.
Medical personnel at the hospital confirmed the deaths and subsequently released the corpses to the victims’ relatives after depositing them at the mortuary.
Authorities suspect the explosives were planted by terrorists affiliated with the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), likely targeting military personnel operating in the region.
In response to the attack, security forces have secured the area and are conducting thorough scans to detect any additional threats, ensuring the safety of road users.
Additionally, security agencies have launched community awareness campaigns to educate residents on the dangers of unexploded ordnance and preventive measures to enhance public safety.
