The Kano State Police Command has officially confirmed that the recent explosion that rocked the city was caused by an Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) — not an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), as earlier feared. The tragic blast claimed five lives and left several others injured.
This latest finding was made public in a statement issued by the Command’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, Hussaini Abdullahi, following an in-depth post-blast investigation by the police Explosive Ordnance Disposal – Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Unit.
According to Abdullahi, the deadly explosion occurred when scrap metal dealers unknowingly transported UXOs — originally from Yobe State — mixed in with scrap metals. One of the devices accidentally detonated during offloading operations at Yongxing Steel Company, located along Ring Road, Mariri Quarters, Kano.
“Our investigation confirms that this was not an IED attack, but rather an unfortunate detonation of a UXO that was unknowingly moved along with scrap,” Abdullahi explained.
So far, police have recovered a total of nine UXOs from the site — seven immediately after the blast and two additional devices discovered in the following days.
Tragically, the explosion — which occurred around 11:30 AM on Saturday, June 21, 2025 — resulted in five fatalities and left numerous others with injuries of varying severity. The injured are currently receiving treatment at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital.
“There is no current or imminent security threat to the public,” Abdullahi assured. “We urge residents to remain calm, avoid panic, and report any suspicious items or activities to the nearest police station.”
State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and offered prayers for the swift recovery of the injured.
Residents are being encouraged to continue with their normal activities while staying alert, as police continue to monitor the situation and recover any additional hazardous materials.
