Improvised Explosive Device (IED) suspected to be planted by Boko Haram has killed eight passengers and wounded many along Maiduguri – Damboa highway, in Borno State, on Saturday.
The mines reportedly exploded around 12 noon at Gidan Kaji, a distance of 30km from Damboa town.
An eye witness who craved anonymity said “the hummer bus drove on the landmine around Gidan Kaji and exploded and killed eight passengers, including the driver.
“Other passengers, who sustained various degrees of injuries were transported to Maiduguri for medical attention. The car was damaged beyond repair,” he said.
“That is how we always lose our men who clear the highway every day for passengers to ply the road safely. Even last week, we lost one of our soldiers on landmines clearance mission along Gwoza road,” he said.
The District Head of Damboa, Lawan Maina, said all those who sustained injuries have been evacuated and admitted at the State Specialists Hospital, Maiduguri.
“It is very saddened to inform you about the explosion that took place along Damboa-Maiduguri road this morning.
“The driver of the hummer bus and seven passengers died at the spot, while many others sustained various degrees of injury.
“I want to appeal to the federal government and the security agencies to redouble their efforts in complementing Borno State Government’s support and cooperation to defeat Boko Haram terrorists in the North East sub region”. Maina stated.
The Maiduguri -Damboa road is one of the deadliest highways that transverse the Sambisa forest area, serving as a link between many local government areas of southern Borno.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, reopened the road with the help of troops that serve as cover to commuters from the Boko Haram terrorising people on the highway.
Meanwhile, Zulum has visited the wounded victims at the State Specialist Hospital where he ordered free treatment for the injured ones.
