Gunpowder explosion rocks Zamfara market, injures 44

A devastating gunpowder explosion at the Talata-Mafara Market in Zamfara State has left 44 people injured, causing widespread panic among traders and shoppers.

The tragic incident, which occurred on Tuesday, reportedly originated from a shop dealing in locally fabricated firearms, raising concerns about the safety of such businesses in public markets.

Confirming the explosion on Wednesday, the Chairman of Talata-Mafara Local Government, Yahaya Yari, disclosed that the injured victims had been referred to Usman Danfodio University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, for urgent medical attention.

“Yes, I received a distress call this afternoon about the sad incident. Forty-four people were injured, and they have been referred to Usman Danfodio Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, for medical attention. No life was lost,” Yari stated.

Zamfara State has been battling rising insecurity, including banditry and kidnappings, leading to an increase in locally made firearms, often used by vigilante groups. In response to the explosion, Yari announced an immediate ban on the sale of locally fabricated firearms in the market.

“This is not the first time it is happening; it has happened twice before today. I have announced a ban on the sale of locally made guns in the market by local blacksmiths. We cannot continue to experience this type of tragedy,” he said.

The council chairman further directed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Talata-Mafara to enforce the ban immediately.

“Anybody that wants to be selling such should do so from their house, not in an open market, risking the lives of innocent people,” Yari added.