A devastating explosion rocked the Abakpa area of Kaduna North Local Government Area on Tuesday, tragically claiming the lives of two children – 13-year-old and 6-year-old.
The explosion, which occurred near the old Nigerian Defence Academy site, also left seven other residents injured.
Reacting to the incident, the Kaduna Police Command, in a statement released through its Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, said the incident was caused by a dane gun discharge.
According to him, a high-level delegation comprising the Commissioner of Police, the Garrison Commander, the State Director of the Department of State Services, and the Chairman of Kaduna North Local Government visited the scene to conduct a thorough assessment.
The statement reads: “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.
“Additionally, seven other individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.
“The Commissioner of Police, Garrison Commander, State Director, Department of State Services (DSS) and the chairman of 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 the Officer in charge of the 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.
“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 communicated promptly and transparently.
“The Command extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured.”
Persecondnews recalls that the state has experienced violent incidents in the past.
In 2012, a suicide bombing targeting Christians on Easter Sunday resulted in 38 fatalities.
Additionally, in January 2020, a gas explosion occurred in the Sabon Tasha area of Kaduna, resulting in fatalities and injuries.
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