Preliminary information has indicated that suspected Boko Haram terrorists deployed multiple suicide bombers into Maiduguri to execute coordinated attacks on crowded locations within the metropolis.
This is according to a statement by Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI.
According to the statement, the coordinated nature of the attacks suggested a deliberate plan to inflict mass casualties and create panic, particularly as the explosions occurred during the Iftar period.
The explosions, which occurred at about 7:05 p.m., affected the Post Office area, Monday Market axis and the entrance to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.
Operation HADIN KAI said troops, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team and other security agencies, responded swiftly and secured the affected locations.
It added that emergency response teams, including personnel of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), evacuated casualties to the General Hospital, Specialist Hospital and UMTH for urgent medical attention.
The statement noted that medical teams were attending to injured victims, while rescue and evacuation efforts were ongoing.
The task force said security forces had intensified surveillance, patrols and counter-IED measures across the metropolis to track down any remaining suspects and prevent further attacks.
It urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, avoid crowded areas and promptly report suspicious persons or activities to security agencies.
Operation HADIN KAI also commiserated with families of victims and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
