Three killed, 19 injured as explosion rocks Taraba market

Three persons have been killed, while several others sustained injuries in an explosion that occurred in Iware community of Taraba state.

The incident occurred on Tuesday at a drinking spot within the Iware cattle market axis.

Usman Abdullahi, Taraba police spokesperson, who confirmed the development to TheCable, said the explosion is suspected to have been caused by an improvised explosive device (IED).

“Three people were killed in the explosion, while 19 people were found injured,” he said.

“The explosion is suspected to have been caused by an improvised explosive device which detonated at the market area.

“You know the history. Iware is a very prominent market that has about three markets. We have the cattle market, where cattle and other animals are sold, and we have another market where people sell and buy grains and other stuff.

“We also have an attached market at the outskirts of the town which is where the locals drink. The unfortunate accident happened at the joint market where people were busy drinking.”

He added that an investigation into the incident has begun, while security operatives have been deployed to the area.

Meanwhile, the development comes days after gunmen attacked a mosque in Maisamari community in Sardauna LGA of Taraba and killed Abdulkadir Sufiyanu, the district head.

Days before the attack on the mosque in Maisamari, several residents were kidnapped when gunmen invaded a mosque in Bali Jali village of Taraba state as worshippers were breaking their fast.