Maiduguri Bomb Blasts Leave 23 Dead, Over 100 Injured – Police

Maiduguri Bomb Blasts Leave 23 Dead, Over 100 Injured – Police

At least 23 people have been confirmed dead and 108 others injured following multiple suicide bomb blasts in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, on Monday evening.

The explosions, suspected to have been carried out by Boko Haram insurgents, struck several crowded locations across the city, including the Monday Market, the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Post Office Flyover.

Security sources indicate that the casualty figure may rise, as some victims reportedly succumbed to injuries while receiving treatment at various hospitals.

Confirming the incident in a statement issued on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer in Borno State, ASP Kenneth Daso, said the attacks occurred at about 7:24 p.m. and involved suspected suicide bombers.

According to him, “A total of 23 persons lost their lives, while 108 others sustained varying degrees of injuries in the coordinated attacks.”

Following the blasts, a joint security response team comprising police tactical units, the military, and other agencies was deployed to secure the affected areas and prevent further incidents.

The Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit also carried out sweeps at the scene to detect and neutralize any additional threats.

Borno State Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmajid, visited the affected locations, where he commiserated with victims and reassured residents of the command’s commitment to ensuring safety and security.

Emergency response teams, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Borno State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), evacuated the injured to nearby medical facilities for urgent treatment.

Meanwhile, the Joint Task Force in the North-East, Operation HADIN KAI, described the attacks as a deliberate attempt to cause mass casualties and create fear among residents.

Its spokesperson, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, stated that troops, in collaboration with police EOD personnel and other security agencies, responded promptly to contain the situation and support rescue efforts.

Residents have been advised to remain calm but vigilant, avoid crowded areas where possible, and promptly report any suspicious movements or objects to security agencies.