One person has been confirmed dead and nine others injured after a trailer conveying passengers struck an improvised explosive device (IED) along the Komala village axis in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State.
Police sources told Zagazola Makama, a security analyst that the incident occurred at about 1:30 p.m. on July 2 when the trailer, driven by Isa Uba, was travelling from Maiduguri to Damboa.
The sources said the IED was suspected to have been planted by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists operating in the area.
According to the sources, the explosion killed one passenger on the spot, while nine others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
Following the incident, a joint response team comprising military personnel, police tactical units, Explosive Ordnance Disposal-Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) operatives, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and local hunters was deployed to the scene.
The injured victims were evacuated to a hospital for medical treatment, while the body of the deceased was also taken to the hospital, where a medical doctor confirmed the death before the remains were released to the family for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.
Security sources said EOD operatives conducted a sweep of the area and rendered the scene safe after the explosion to eliminate any additional threats.
They added that security forces have continued combing operations along the route and surrounding communities to prevent further attacks and track down those responsible for planting the explosive device.
The Maiduguri-Damboa road has remained a security flashpoint despite sustained military operations, with insurgents frequently targeting commuters using improvised explosive devices and ambushes.
Authorities have continued to urge motorists to comply with security advisories and travel under recommended security arrangements where necessary.
