Soldiers feared dead after convoy hits IED in Sokoto

A military convoy in Nigeria's Sokoto State struck a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) on Saturday, resulting in an unconfirmed number of soldiers killed and injured. The incident occurred on the Isa–Bargaja road as troops were responding to a distress call about an overnight raid by armed groups in the Bargaja community.

Local residents reported that armed bandits invaded Bargaja, forcing villagers to flee and seek military assistance. Community sources allege that the attackers planted the explosive device on the route before the troops arrived. "They were on their way to rescue us when the vehicle hit the explosive," one resident stated. "Many soldiers were affected. One of the injured soldiers later made his way into the village seeking assistance."

Further details suggest a potential coordinated ambush. A source familiar with the incident claimed that while the lead armored vehicle passed safely, a subsequent vehicle was hit by the IED. Residents also reported hearing continuous gunfire throughout the night, intensifying fears within the community. Community leaders reportedly traveled to Isa town to offer condolences to military personnel following the casualty reports.

This event follows a security alert issued in neighboring Zamfara State warning of bandits planning to plant explosive devices along major roads. While direct links are unconfirmed, the incident underscores growing anxiety in Nigeria's Northwest region regarding the increasing adoption of military-style tactics, including IEDs, by criminal groups. Security analysts have previously warned that such tactics could complicate counter-insurgency efforts in the area, which has historically been plagued by mass abductions and cattle rustling.

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They were on their way to rescue us when the vehicle hit the explosive. Many soldiers were affected. One of the injured soldiers later made his way into the village seeking assistance.