Residents of Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, were thrown into panic yesterday evening, after several loud explosions were heard across parts of the city.
The blasts were suspected to have been caused by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) allegedly planted by terrorists believed to be linked to Boko Haram.
According to reports from residents, the explosions occurred near the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, the busy Monday Market Roundabout, and the Elkanemi area, triggering fear and confusion among people in the vicinity.
Witnesses said the first explosion was heard at about 7 p.m., shortly after Muslims ended their daily fast during the holy month of Ramadan. The blasts sent residents running for safety as security operatives and emergency responders rushed to the affected areas.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities had not confirmed whether there were casualties resulting from the explosions.
The incident occurred only hours after suspected terrorists launched an attack on a military position in Ajilari, a community on the outskirts of Maiduguri. During the assault, the gunmen reportedly set parts of the military facility on fire and fled with a patrol vehicle.
Security sources disclosed that troops later repelled the attack, killing some of the assailants, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds.
Security agencies have since intensified surveillance in parts of the city as investigations continue. More details are expected as officials assess the situation and work to restore calm.
