At least nine people have been killed and several others injured after explosions struck the Magami–Dansadau Road in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Nigeria, in a suspected bandit attack on Saturday afternoon.

The Zamfara State Police Command has confirmed that the blasts were caused by one or more improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted along the major highway, a notorious route frequently targeted by armed criminal groups. The police spokesperson, DSP Yazid Abubakar, said the incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. local time near Maikogo village, but officials are still working to verify the full extent of casualties and the exact circumstances of the attack.

Eyewitnesses reported that the explosions struck in quick succession, hitting both private motorcycles and a trailer carrying passengers and goods. One resident said the blasts occurred between the Maikogo and Mai’ayaya communities, sending travellers and motorists fleeing in panic.

According to the eyewitness account, the first explosion reportedly destroyed two motorcycles, killing at least four riders instantly, while a second blast hit a trailer, resulting in the deaths of about five more people. In the chaos that followed, a woman who fell from a fleeing vehicle was apparently run over and killed, adding to the mounting toll.

Local security analysts and residents suspect that armed bandits operating in the region planted the explosive devices, continuing a trend of violence and insecurity along this stretch of road. The Magami–Dansadau route has long been considered one of the most dangerous in the state, with frequent attacks on travellers and occasional demands for military escorts for safe passage.

Security forces have since been deployed to cordon off the area, prevent further incidents, and begin a full investigation. Police say explosive ordnance disposal experts are on the ground to ensure no additional devices remain along the highway and to establish a clearer picture of how the attack unfolded.

Authorities have urged motorists and residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects or activity to local security posts as the aftermath of the blasts continues to unfold.

The tragic events on the Magami–Dansadau road highlight the ongoing security challenges in northwestern Nigeria, where banditry, kidnappings, and violent attacks have plagued rural communities and major transit routes for years. (ILKHA)