At least one person has been confirmed dead, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries after a commercial vehicle struck an improvised explosive device (IED) allegedly planted by suspected bandits along the Kurawa–Sabon Birni road in Sokoto State.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, raising fresh concerns over the growing use of explosive devices by criminal groups operating in parts of northwestern Nigeria.
According to local sources, the vehicle was transporting passengers from surrounding communities to Sabon Birni when it ran over the suspected explosive device, triggering a powerful blast that severely damaged the vehicle and left several occupants injured.
Residents who rushed to the scene described moments of panic as they assisted victims and searched for survivors. While one fatality has been confirmed, the exact number of those injured has not yet been officially disclosed.
The attack has heightened fears among residents, as insecurity continues to affect several communities in Sokoto State. The Kurawa–Sabon Birni road has witnessed repeated attacks by armed groups, forcing many travelers to exercise extreme caution.
Security agencies are yet to release an official statement on the incident, while efforts are expected to intensify to identify those responsible and improve security along the affected route.
The latest explosion underscores the evolving tactics of armed groups in the region, with the use of improvised explosive devices posing an increasing threat to motorists and local communities.