A tragic incident occurred in Borno State, Nigeria, on Friday, resulting in the loss of four young lives and injuring one. The Borno Police Command confirmed that an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) explosion took place behind the Banki Motor Park in Wajari Ward, Bama Local Government Area.
According to the command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, the explosion happened at approximately 12:40 p.m. The incident was reported to the police by a local resident, Babagana Mohammed, prompting a swift response from the Divisional Police Officer in Banki. Personnel and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians were immediately dispatched to the scene.
Preliminary investigations revealed that a 12-year-old boy, Mustapha Tijja, sustained serious injuries in the blast and was rushed to the FHI 360 NGO Clinic in Banki for treatment. Further findings indicated that the injured boy had been playing with the IED, allegedly found in the bush, along with four friends in a makeshift room behind the motor park. The explosive device detonated, resulting in the tragic loss of life.
The victims who lost their lives have been identified as Awana Mustapha, 15; Malum Modu, 14; Lawan Ibrahim, 12; and Modu Abacha, 12. Normalcy has been restored in the area, and an investigation is ongoing.
The Commissioner of Police in Borno, Mr. Naziru Abdulmajid, has expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families. He warned residents, particularly children, against handling suspicious objects or potential explosives, emphasizing the importance of reporting any such items to the authorities. The public can report suspicious items to the nearest police station or contact the emergency numbers: 0806 807 5581 and 0802 347 3293.
The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by unexploded ordnance and the importance of community vigilance. As the investigation continues, the Borno Police Command urges residents to remain cautious and report any suspicious activity to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
