Maryam Aminu
A tragic explosion has claimed the lives of four children in Banki, Bama Local Government Area of Borno State, after an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated behind the Banki Motor Park on Friday.
The incident occurred around 12:40 p.m., and was reported shortly after by a resident, Babagana Mohammed. Police officers and Explosive Ordnance Disposal experts rushed to the scene and cordoned off the area.
Preliminary investigations revealed that five boys had been playing in a makeshift room near the motor park when the device allegedly picked from the bush exploded. Twelve-year-old Mustapha Tijja survived with serious injuries and is currently receiving treatment at the FHI 360 NGO Clinic.
The four boys who died from the blast were identified as 15-year-old Awana Mustapha, 14-year-old Malum Modu, and two 12-year-olds, Lawan Ibrahim and Modu Abacha.
The Borno State Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and warned residents, particularly children, to stay away from strange objects and immediately report suspicious items to security agencies.
Police say normalcy has been restored, and investigations are ongoing. Emergency hotlines remain active for public reports: 0806 807 5581 and 0802 347 3293.
Africa Security Investigation News 