A commercial bus struck an improvised explosive device (IED) on the Maiduguri-Damboa road in Borno State on Saturday, killing eight passengers and severely injuring eleven others.
The incident occurred around 11:45 am near Komala village in Konduga Local Government Area. Borno Police Command spokesperson ASP Nahum Daso confirmed to PUNCH that the explosive was likely planted by Boko Haram terrorists.
“The Hummer bus with registration number Jigawa MMR144 hit the IED while traveling from Damboa to Maiduguri,” Daso stated, adding that bomb disposal units have launched clearance operations along the route.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes at the site, with motorist Aminu Ismaila reporting: “Security agents delayed traffic while conducting sweeps – we saw crowds gathered where it happened.” Another driver, who requested anonymity, noted the vehicle was “damaged beyond recognition,” confirming it was an explosion rather than a collision.
The injured victims are currently receiving medical treatment as security forces remain on high alert in the area.
