The Zamfara State Police Command has arrested a 38-year-old man for the unlawful possession of suspected explosive materials, following an intelligence-led operation by operatives of the Command’s Task Force on Illegal Mining.
The suspect, identified as Mustapha Mohammad, was apprehended on January 27, 2026, at about 4:15 p.m. while driving a Toyota Corolla. A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of 954 pieces of suspected explosive materials concealed in polyethylene bags.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the recovered items were likely intended for use by bandits in the manufacture of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
Police sources said the suspect is currently in custody, while the exhibits have been secured and handed over to the Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team for safe keeping and detailed forensic analysis.
The Command said investigations are ongoing to ascertain the source, destination and intended use of the suspected explosives, as well as to identify and arrest other persons who may be connected to the crime.
The police assured the public that further updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.
