4  teenagers killed as bomb explodes in Borno town

The Borno State Police Command has launched an inquiry into a fatal explosion in Banki, located in Bama Local Government Area, which claimed the lives of four teenagers.

Police spokesperson Nahum Daso said the incident occurred when an improvised explosive device detonated behind the Banki Motor Park in Wajari Ward. The victims were identified as Awana Mustapha, 15; Malum Modu, 14; Lawan Ibrahim, 12; and Modu Abacha, 12.

Daso stated that the teenagers were playing with the object, reportedly found in the bush, when it went off.

According to the police statement: “The Borno State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of a tragic Improvised Explosive Device explosion that occurred today, 5/12/2025, at about 12:40 hours behind Banki Motor Park, Wajari Ward, Banki, Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.

“At about 1300hrs, one Babagana Mohammed of Wajari Ward reported to the Police. Upon receipt of the report, the Divisional Police Officer Banki and team, in conjunction with Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians, were immediately mobilised to the scene, where the area was cordoned off.”

Daso also confirmed that a 12-year-old boy, Mustapha Tijja, sustained serious injuries and was taken to the FHI 360 NGO clinic in Banki, where he is receiving treatment. “Further findings indicate that the injured boy had gone with four of his friends to a makeshift room behind the motor park, where the deceased were playing with an IED allegedly picked from the bush, when it accidentally exploded,” he said.

He added that calm had returned to the community while investigations continue.

“The Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmajid, has expressed deep condolences to the affected families and strongly warned members of the public, especially children, to avoid playing with strange objects or suspected explosive devices, and to promptly report such sightings to the nearest police station,” he added.