05 Dec 2024 | 10:44 AM UTC
Nigeria: Explosion along Gusau-Dansadau road, Zamfara State, Dec. 4
Further attacks possible across Zamfara State after explosion along Gusau-Dansadau road, Nigeria, Dec. 4.
Further attacks are possible across Zamfara State in the coming days after an explosive device detonated along Gusau-Dansadau road, Maru Local Government Area (LGA), at around 08:00 Dec. 4. There are contradictory casualty tolls ranging from one to 12 people killed. Police officials have attributed the attack to the Lakurawa group, which is also responsible for an explosion that killed one person in the Maru LGA on Dec. 1.
Authorities will likely maintain an elevated security posture in the affected areas over the coming days. Officials could implement checkpoints along main roads in the region.
Consult local security partners on the viability of traveling in Zamfara State. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Do not discuss plans and routes publicly. If operating in the area in the long term, vary routes and times of travel and ensure the use of secure transport. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.
Although details about the group remain limited, Lakurawa reportedly expanded in northwestern Nigeria after the July 2023 coup in Niger that disrupted joint operations carried out by Nigeria and Niger at border areas. According to military officials, the group has provided support and protection to the local population against criminal gangs, also called bandits. Lakurawa may have relations with the Islamic State. Some reports suggest the group has operated in the region since 1999.
