Maiduguri, Nigeria – Suspected suicide bombers linked to Boko Haram have detonated improvised explosive devices in multiple locations across Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State.
Okay News reports that the explosions occurred at about 7:05 p.m. on Monday during the period of Iftar, when many Muslims break their fast during Ramadan.
According to a statement issued by Sani Uba, lieutenant colonel and media information officer for Operation HADIN KAI, the attacks were carried out by suspected Boko Haram suicide bombers who targeted crowded public areas in the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council.
The coordinated explosions reportedly occurred at the Post Office area, the Monday Market axis and the entrance to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.
Security forces under Operation HADIN KAI, working with the Nigeria Police Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal team and other security agencies, swiftly responded to the incident and secured the affected areas.
Emergency response teams from the National Emergency Management Agency and other medical providers evacuated victims to the General Hospital, Specialist Hospital and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital for treatment.
Medical teams are currently attending to injured victims at various health facilities across the city, while rescue and evacuation operations continue at the affected locations.
Preliminary information suggests the attackers may have deployed multiple suicide bombers into the city to carry out coordinated attacks at crowded locations.
Security agencies have since intensified surveillance, patrols and counter-IED measures across Maiduguri to track down any remaining suspects and prevent further attacks.
Operation HADIN KAI urged residents to remain calm but vigilant and to report suspicious persons or unattended items to the nearest security agency. The task force also commiserated with the families of the victims and assured the public that troops remain committed to safeguarding lives and property while pursuing those responsible for the attacks.
