Blast on Zamfara Highway: Scores Feared Dead as Travelers Targeted by Suspected Bandits

Panic gripped travelers along the Yar’Tasha–Dansadau road in Maru Local Government Area, Zamfara State, on Saturday following a suspected bomb explosion that has reportedly claimed multiple lives.

Eyewitnesses and social media reports indicate that vehicles were destroyed and travelers fled in terror as the blast shook the highway.

Video footage circulating online shows chaos and fear at the scene.

Zamfara State Police Public Relations Officer, Yazid Abubakar, confirmed the explosion, saying, “I can confirm that there was a blast in that Area, but the incident just happened. I can’t provide details yet. I will update you later.”

Attempts to reach the Officer for further comment were unsuccessful, as his phone was switched off.

The attack has sparked outrage online. Nuhu Sada, SDP candidate for Kaduna State House of Assembly, Zaria Kewaye Constituency, tweeted: “Another tragic attack on innocent travelers in Zamfara.

Families are grieving, lives are lost, and property destroyed. Security Agencies must act quickly to prevent further harm and bring those responsible to justice.”

Another social media user, Dan Katsina (@DanKatsina50), reported: “BREAKING NEWS: A moment ago, an explosion struck travelers on the Yar’Tasha–Dansadau road in Maru LGA, Zamfara State.

The blast, suspected to be an IED planted by bandits, caused deaths and property damage; casualties remain unconfirmed. Are security Agencies investigating and what measures are being taken to secure this route?”

Authorities have yet to release official figures on casualties or property loss.

The incident underscores the growing insecurity challenges in the region and the urgent need for enhanced highway protection.