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Three police officers have lost their lives after an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated during a security operation along the Anka–Bagega road in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Security sources disclosed that the tragic incident occurred at about 5:05 p.m. on June 15 while a police team was carrying out a mission to neutralise a suspected explosive device allegedly planted by armed bandits operating in the area.
The operation was led by the Officer-in-Charge of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, SP Abdulrazak Musa Hassan, who headed a combined team that included personnel of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU).
According to reports, the officers were conducting a controlled clearance exercise with the support of an armoured personnel carrier when the vehicle inadvertently triggered the explosive device.
The resulting explosion claimed the lives of SP Abdulrazak Musa Hassan, Inspector Murtala Musa of the VCRU and Inspector Auwal Ahmad of the EOD Unit.
The three officers reportedly died at the scene as a result of injuries sustained from the blast, dealing a major blow to the security operation.
Following the incident, emergency responders evacuated the bodies of the deceased officers to the Federal Medical Centre, Gusau, for post-mortem examination.
Authorities confirmed that the remains have been deposited at the hospital morgue pending further official procedures and arrangements.
Security agencies have launched an investigation to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the explosion and determine whether additional explosive devices remain in the area.
The incident has heightened concerns over the growing use of improvised explosive devices by criminal groups operating in parts of the North-West, particularly in banditry-prone communities.
In response to the attack, security forces have reinforced operations along the Anka–Bagega corridor and adjoining communities to prevent further casualties.
Additional clearance and surveillance activities are also being conducted to ensure the route is safe for both security personnel and residents.
The latest tragedy underscores the dangers faced daily by security operatives engaged in counter-banditry operations across Zamfara and other troubled parts of the country.
It also highlights the evolving tactics of armed groups, who increasingly deploy explosive devices to target security forces and disrupt military and police operations.
Authorities have assured residents that efforts to secure the area and dismantle criminal networks operating within the region will continue despite the setback.
