Bandits deploy deadly IEDs, passengers feared dead in Toyota blast

A vehicle carrying passengers reportedly ran over an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by bandits in Zamfara State on Friday, December 12, with many feared dead and injured.
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The attack, which involved a Toyota Eagle Eye vehicle traveling from the Gwashi, detonated around 8:32 am, throwing the vehicle off balance.
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The use of IEDs by bandit groups is a relatively recent, alarming development, mirroring tactics previously associated only with Boko Haram and ISWAP in Nigeria’s North-East.
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According to counter-terrorism publication Zagazola Makama, efforts to determine the exact number of casualties are underway, but many passengers were feared dead.
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Troops from Operation Fansan Yanma, supported by tactical units and bomb disposal experts, were deployed to secure the blast site, assess the damage, and conduct recovery operations.
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The attack is suspected to have been organized by a bandit kingpin identified as Sadiku, who is linked to the Dogo Gide. Dogo Gide is a prominent bandit leader known for large-scale kidnappings and terror activities in Zamfara and surrounding states.
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‎Similar event happened recently on the December 10, at Lingir Village, Guzamala LGA, of Borno state,  where a truck carrying onions struck an explosive device, injuring the driver and three passengers. Dawn Herald reported an event that happened on December 6, in Bama LGA of Borno state where an IED went off behind the Banki motor park, killing four children and injuring one other.
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Authorities have strongly advised travelers in Zamfara to exercise caution and avoid isolated routes as security operations intensify to counter these new, deadly threats.
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