Police Denies IED Explosion In Kaduna, But Confirms One Casualty

The Kaduna State Police Command has refuted reports that an Improvised Explosive Device explosion claimed the life of a 12-year-old boy and injured at least six others in the Abakpa area of the Kaduna North Local Government Area.

It was earlier reported that the incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

However, police authorities denied the explosion claim, while attributing the cause to a discharged locally-made firearm.

The rebuttal was disclosed in a statement issued by the State Police Command’s spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan.

The statement read, “On 22nd April 2025 at about 0830hrs, the Police received a distress call regarding a suspected blast in the Josawa Road area of Abakpa, Kaduna.

"In response, a team of policemen led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Kawo Division, was immediately dispatched to the scene. The incident claimed the life of a 12-year-old boy, identified as Abubakar Muhammed of Josawa Road.”

Mansir explained that seven other individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.

"The Commissioner of Police, Garrison Commander, State Director, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the chairman kaduna north local government have all visited the scene and a thorough on-site assessment was carried out.

"Contrary to initial reports, experts confirmed that the incident was not an explosion. Preliminary investigations conducted by Officer in charge of Police Anti-Bomb Squad indicate that a locally made firearm (Dane gun) was discharged, resulting in the unfortunate loss of life of the young boy," he said.

According to Mansir, "Further investigations and assessments are ongoing to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident. The Police Command assures the public that further developments will be promptly and transparently communicated."

The Command extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured,” he added.