The Traffic

Deadly Dynamite Explosion in Niger: Owner Remains at Large, Police Urge Vigilance

By Achimi muktar

Tragedy struck the Sabon-Pegi community in Mashegu Local Government Area, Niger State, when a stash of dynamites reportedly kept for mining activities exploded, killing one person, injuring six, and destroying 12 residential buildings. Days after the devastating incident, the police are still on the hunt for the alleged owner, identified as Yushau, who remains at large.

The explosion occurred on Monday morning, January 26, 2025, when the dynamites, stored in a residential area, detonated. According to Niger State Commissioner of Police Shawulu Danmamman, the blast claimed the life of Fatima Sadauki and left six others critically injured. The injured victims are currently receiving treatment at the General Hospital in Kainji.

The force of the explosion caused widespread destruction, leveling 12 houses and leaving the community in shock. Police investigations are ongoing, with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD-CBRN) unit dispatched to assess the site.

Police have identified Yushau, who allegedly stored the explosives for mining purposes, as the prime suspect. However, he remains at large, prompting concerns about potential risks from unregulated mining activities in the area.

Commissioner Danmamman emphasized the urgency of locating Yushau, stating, “Normalcy has been restored, but the suspect is still at large. Our officers are actively working to track him down.”

In the wake of the incident, the police have urged residents to cooperate by sharing intelligence to prevent future disasters. Commissioner Danmamman expressed disappointment that the community had not alerted authorities about the dynamite storage earlier.

“If the community had identified the owner and informed the police of his activities, this tragedy could have been averted,” he lamented.

He called for stronger collaboration, urging residents to report suspicious activities. “When people see something, they should say something. Public safety is a shared responsibility,” he added.

The tragedy highlights the dangers of unregulated storage and handling of explosives, especially in residential areas. As authorities work to apprehend the suspect and ensure justice, the incident serves as a grim reminder of the importance of community vigilance in safeguarding lives and property.

With one life lost, six others injured, and dozens displaced, the people of Sabon-Pegi are left grappling with the aftermath of a preventable disaster. For now, the search for Yushau continues, and the call for community cooperation grows louder.