A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in Pulka town, Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, as a grenade explosion killed three children on Thursday afternoon.
The victims, identified as Fati Dahiru, Aisha Ibrahim, and Fati Yakubu, lost their lives after a grenade they were unknowingly playing with exploded around 2:20 p.m. The device is suspected to have been left behind by Boko Haram insurgents.
According to Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) member Buba Yaga, the children were playing near an open field when the blast occurred, instantly causing severe injuries.
Emergency response and safety sweep
A combined team comprising the Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit (EOD-CBRN), troops of Operation Hadin Kai, CJTF operatives, and local hunters swiftly moved to the scene.
The area was cordoned off and thoroughly searched for any other explosive devices.
Security forces confirmed that no additional threats were found, and the area was declared safe after the sweep.
The injured girls were taken to the General Hospital in Gwoza, where doctors confirmed them dead on arrival.
Their bodies were released to their families for immediate burial in accordance with Islamic rites.
In the wake of the tragedy, authorities have reiterated calls for residents to stay vigilant and avoid tampering with unfamiliar objects.
They urged the public to promptly report any suspicious items to security operatives to prevent future incidents.
