Explosive attack between Katari and Rijana halts major rail service as armed attackers reportedly surround stranded train in late-night assault.
By A1NEWS International – ABUJA, Nigeria – June 22, 2026
A terrorist attack targeting the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor has left hundreds of passengers in distress after explosives were reportedly detonated on the railway track, bringing a passenger train carrying more than 900 people to a sudden halt.
Multiple credible sources confirmed that the attack occurred on Monday night between the Katari and Rijana axis, a known high-risk stretch of the rail line, raising fresh concerns over the security of one of Nigeria’s most critical transport routes.
Explosive Attack Disrupts Rail Movement
Preliminary reports indicate that unidentified armed groups planted and detonated explosive devices on the rail tracks, effectively immobilising the moving train.
The Abuja–Kaduna train service, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s busiest intercity rail corridors, was immediately forced to a standstill following the blast.
Security sources confirmed that the incident took place in a remote section of the route, making rapid emergency response difficult.
Armed Assailants Surround Stranded Train
Eyewitness accounts from passengers onboard suggest that the attack escalated shortly after the explosion, as armed men allegedly surrounded the immobilised train and began sporadic gunfire.
A distressed passenger, speaking via telephone during the incident, described a chaotic and life-threatening situation onboard.
“All the passengers are currently lying on the floor of the train. The bandits are shooting sporadically. We are in serious danger,” the passenger said.
At the time of reporting, the situation was still developing, with reports indicating that the attack had not yet been fully contained.
Over 900 Passengers Trapped in Crisis Situation
Official sources familiar with the rail operation confirmed that the train was carrying at least 970 passengers at the time of the attack.
The large number of passengers has heightened concerns over potential casualties and the scale of the unfolding emergency.
Security analysts warn that coordinated attacks on mass transit systems represent a growing threat pattern that requires rapid tactical response and improved rail corridor protection.
Security Agencies Mobilised Amid Ongoing Threat
While details remain fluid, security sources indicated that emergency response units were being mobilised toward the scene following distress signals from the train crew and passengers.
However, the remote location between Katari and Rijana has reportedly complicated immediate access for security forces.
As of press time, there has been no official confirmation of casualties or full rescue operations.
Strategic Rail Corridor Under Renewed Scrutiny
The Abuja–Kaduna rail line has previously experienced security disruptions, making it a recurring concern for transport safety and national infrastructure protection.
The latest incident is expected to reignite debate over:
- Rail corridor security architecture
- Surveillance and early warning systems
- Armed escort deployment for mass transit routes
- Intelligence coordination across security agencies
Security experts argue that repeated attacks on the corridor reflect persistent vulnerabilities in critical national infrastructure protection.
The bombing and subsequent armed assault on the Abuja–Kaduna train marks one of the most serious security incidents on Nigeria’s rail network in recent times. With nearly a thousand passengers reportedly trapped during the attack, urgent questions are emerging over response time, security preparedness, and the resilience of critical transport infrastructure.
Authorities are yet to issue a comprehensive statement as rescue and security operations continue to unfold.
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