Many travellers are feared dead following a suspected bomb explosion along the Yar’Tasha–Dansadau road in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State on Saturday.
The explosion reportedly occurred in the afternoon and caused widespread panic among commuters using the busy route. Motorists and passengers were seen abandoning their vehicles and fleeing the area over fears of further attacks.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Zamfara State, DSP Yazid Abubakar, said security agencies were aware of the blast but could not immediately provide full details.
Speaking during a telephone interview, Abubakar said, “I can confirm that there was a blast in that area, but it just happened. I can’t give details yet. I will update you later.”
Videos circulating on social media showed frightened travellers running for safety moments after the explosion, with several vehicles left behind on the road. The footage has heightened concerns about security along highways in the state.
Reacting to the incident on X (formerly Twitter), a former Social Democratic Party (SDP) House of Assembly candidate in Kaduna State, Nuhu Sada, described the blast as another tragic attack on innocent citizens. He called on security agencies to act swiftly to apprehend those responsible and prevent further loss of lives.
Meanwhile, some social media users alleged that the explosion was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) allegedly planted by bandits. However, authorities have yet to officially confirm the cause of the explosion or release any casualty figures.
Security agencies are expected to carry out further investigations, while residents and travellers in the area await official updates on the incident.
