At Least 7 Dead As Explosions Rock Damaturu

At least six persons have been reported dead in Damaturu, the capital of Yobe State, after twin blasts occurred in the early hours of Tuesday.

According to Channels Television's correspondent in Yobe State, Jonathan Gopep, the first blast occurred at the Central Motor Park while the second one was set off along the Gashua-Maiduguri bypass.

The Spokesman for the Police in the State, Toyin Gbadegesin confirmed the explosion.

He said 42 others are receiving treatment.
Mr Gbedegesin explained that the first explosion, carried out by a female suicide bomber, occurred at about 7:30am. The suicide bomber detonated the explosive device close to a vehicle at the Central Motor Park, killing five persons and herself, he said.

The second explosion was detonated by a male suicide bomber who was attempting to take a commercial vehicle when the explosion went off, killing just the suicide bomber.

The National Emergency Management Agency said those who sustained injuries have been taken to the Damaturu Specialist Hospital where they are being treated.

It is not clear yet who set off the bombs neither has any group claimed responsibility for the attack but the incident bears the marks of the Boko Haram sect which has carried out similar attacks in the city in recent time.

CHANNELSTV