Bomb explosion hits Nigerian capital

ABUJA - A bomb explosion hit a busy market near army barracks in the Nigerian capital Abuja, Xinhua reported Saturday.

At least 11 people were killed in the explosion Friday so far, according to reports. However, police said they could not confirm the toll at this stage.

Police said the bomb was planted in an area where people were gathering to celebrate the New Year.

The area was cordoned off by security forces and a bomb disposal unit was working on the scene, police spokesman Jimoh Moshood told Xinhua.

“There were casualties, but the number remains unknown,” Moshood said.

Witnesses said many people lost their limbs in the blast.

“I saw security operatives carrying corpses into vans,” a witness said.