RESIDENTS of Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, were thrown into panic on Monday evening after multiple explosions rocked parts of the city, with fears that several people may have been killed.
The blasts, suspected to have been caused by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted by Boko Haram terrorists, occurred in different locations across the ancient city shortly after Muslims broke their Ramadan fast.
Eyewitnesses said the explosions, which sent shockwaves across several neighbourhoods, began at about 7:00 p.m., creating confusion and fear among residents who rushed to seek safety.
A source who spoke with News Point Nigeria said some casualties were feared, although the exact number of victims could not be confirmed at the time of filing this report.
According to the source, areas affected by the explosions include the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), the busy Monday Market Roundabout, and parts of the Elkanemi area.
Residents around the affected locations reported hearing loud bangs followed by scenes of panic as people fled the vicinity, fearing additional explosions.
Security operatives and emergency responders were said to have been deployed to the affected areas shortly after the incidents in an effort to secure the locations and assess the situation.
The explosions occurred just hours after suspected Boko Haram terrorists launched an attack on a military position in Ajilari, a community on the outskirts of Maiduguri.
Sources said the insurgents set parts of the military facility ablaze during the attack and reportedly made away with a military patrol vehicle.
However, troops stationed at the location were said to have successfully repelled the assault after engaging the attackers in a fierce gun battle.
Security sources indicated that several of the terrorists were killed during the exchange, while others reportedly fled the scene with bullet wounds.
The military is yet to release an official statement on the explosions or confirm casualty figures as investigations continue.
