Not fewer than 26 people, including women and children, lost their lives after vehicles travelling from Rann to Gamboru Ngala stepped on landmines (IEDs) in Kala Balge Local Government Area of Borno State on Monday, sources said.
The incident occurred around 11:00 a.m. along the Furunduma axis, approximately 11 kilometres away from Rann, the Headquarters of the Kala-Balge council area, leaving a devastating toll on families.
According to local sources, among the dead were four women, six children, and more than a dozen young boys. The incident highlighted how women and young people continue to bear the brunt of violence in the region.
“A total of 26 persons lost their lives, including 16 men, four women, and six children,” a source said.
“In addition, three women and unspecified numbers of children were injured in the blast.”
Another source said the wounded have been evacuated to Gamboru Ngala for further medical treatment, while the other two are receiving care at Rann General Hospital.
A Civilian Joint Task Force member who spoke anonymously said more than 20 people instantly lost their lives due to the magnitude of the explosion.
As of the time of this report, details remain unclear, and an official statement has not been released.
