No fewer than 10 people have been confirmed dead, while seven others sustained injuries following an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) explosion along the Bagega–Anka road in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

The incident reportedly occurred at about 6:15 p.m. on Monday when a commercial Volkswagen Golf 3 Wagon travelling from Bagega to Anka ran over an explosive device allegedly planted by suspected bandits operating in the area.

The spokesperson of the Zamfara State Police Command, Yazid Abubakar, initially confirmed one fatality and seven injured victims when speaking to journalists on Wednesday. He added that specialised tactical teams were immediately deployed to the scene for assessment and rescue operations.

However, subsequent search and recovery efforts led to the discovery of nine additional bodies at the scene, bringing the total death toll to 10.

According to security sources, the explosion occurred between Tungar Kudaku and Bagega communities, prompting swift intervention by security operatives.

“The deployment of personnel enabled a thorough assessment, during which nine more bodies were recovered from the blast site,” a police source was quoted as saying.

The deceased were evacuated to a hospital for autopsy and other necessary procedures before being released to their families for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.

Police authorities stated that security has been reinforced along the Anka–Bagega corridor to prevent further incidents. Visibility patrols have also been intensified to reassure residents and deter criminal activities.

Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movements or objects to security agencies.

The command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state, adding that investigations into the incident are ongoing.