A member of a local hunters’ group has lost his life following an accidental explosion during a joint security patrol with military troops in Adamawa State.
The incident reportedly occurred around 10:15 a.m. on April 24 during a fighting patrol involving troops of the 232 Battalion (Tactical) and local hunters operating in Gombi Local Government Area.
According to security sources, the patrol team had successfully carried out operations around Member Farm and Dogon Kuka areas before the tragic incident happened while they were returning along the Garkida-Gombi axis.
Reports indicate that the explosion was triggered inside the patrol vehicle when one of the hunters accidentally stepped on a primed rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) tube that had been loaded in the military gun truck.
The unexpected impact reportedly caused a partial explosion inside the vehicle, creating panic among members of the patrol team.
“One of the hunters reportedly stepped on a primed RPG tube inside the gun truck, triggering a partial explosion,” a security source disclosed.
The victim suffered a serious injury to his left leg and was immediately rushed to a medical facility for urgent treatment.
Despite efforts to save his life, he later died from complications resulting from the injuries sustained in the blast.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about the handling of explosive devices during joint operations involving local security volunteers and military personnel.
Local hunters often work alongside troops in counterinsurgency and anti-banditry operations across several parts of northern Nigeria, especially in areas facing security threats.
However, this latest tragedy highlights the risks involved in such operations and the need for stricter safety protocols when handling live ammunition and explosive devices.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the incident, but the death has reportedly caused sadness among both security personnel and members of the local hunting community in the area.