At least seven people were killed on Saturday after a bomb exploded along the Magami–Dansadau highway in Zamfara State, underscoring the growing danger facing travellers in the North-west. The blast occurred in Maru Local Government Area, a region plagued by persistent bandit violence.
Residents and security sources said the device detonated as vehicles were moving along the busy Gusau–Dansadau–Magami route. The highway is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous in the state and often requires military escort for civilian movement.
A local resident, Haruna Bala, said five victims died instantly at the scene, while two others later died from their injuries at a hospital. He described the explosion as sudden and devastating, leaving vehicles damaged and travellers in shock.
Zamfara State government officials confirmed the incident. The governor’s media aide, Mustapha Kaura, said the explosive was planted between Yar-gada and Mai-hayahaya villages. He attributed the attack to fleeing bandits linked to the notorious kingpin, Dogo Gide.
The Joint Task Force, Operation Fansan Yamma, also confirmed the explosion. Its spokesperson, David Adewusi, said preliminary findings showed the blast was caused by an Improvised Explosive Device planted by terrorists targeting road users.
The Dansadau axis of Maru LGA has long been a hotspot for banditry, but the growing use of IEDs marks a worrying escalation. Security experts say the tactic mirrors insurgent methods previously associated with the North-east conflict.
This is not the first deadly explosion in the area. In December last year, more than 15 people were killed in separate bomb attacks across the Dansadau District. Explosions were recorded on the Dansadau–Malamawa road and Malele Road, while another blast destroyed a bridge at Tashar Sahabi, killing at least 12 people.
Dansadau lies on the fringe of the Kuyambana Forest, a vast terrain that serves as a hideout and transit corridor for armed groups operating across Zamfara, Kaduna, Niger, and Katsina states. The forest’s difficult terrain has complicated military operations.
While bandits in the North-west have traditionally relied on motorcycles and small arms for raids, the increased deployment of landmines and IEDs over the past year has intensified fears. Residents are now urging stronger security measures as attacks on highways continue to claim civilian lives.
