Police operatives in Katsina State have seized a vehicle loaded with a significant cache of explosive materials during a routine security check.
The development was disclosed in a statement released on Tuesday, the 13th of January, 2026, by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Aliyu, who said the operation took place at a checkpoint in Koza, within Daura Local Government Area.
Aliyu stated, “On January 7, while on an intelligence-led stop and search, a team of policemen succeeded in intercepting a Golf vehicle driven by one Jamilu Musa, aged 40.”
He noted that a thorough search of the vehicle uncovered highly dangerous items. According to him, “Upon instant search, 6,975 pieces of detonators were recovered in the suspect’s possession, neatly concealed.”
The police spokesperson further revealed that the suspect made useful confessions during interrogation. He explained that the man admitted receiving the explosives from one Najib, who is currently on the run, while travelling from Kano State to Kongolam in Mai’adua Local Government Area.
Aliyu added that the investigation was expanded, leading to more arrests. “In the course of further investigation, two suspects, one Ibrahim Murtala and Sulaiman Muhammad, were also arrested in connection with the offence,” he said.
Additional explosives were recovered from the newly arrested suspects. He disclosed, “7,500 electric detonators and 30 and half bags of gelatine weighing 2,273.65kg were also recovered in their possession.”
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According to the spokesman, the suspects “confessed to the commission of the offence, and would be charged in court as soon as investigations are concluded.” He added that police efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspect.
Aliyu explained that the operation was carried out in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on heightened surveillance and intelligence-driven patrols, particularly along major highways.
He also reassured the public that the Katsina State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Bello Shehu, remains committed to reinforcing security across the state to ensure the safety of lives and property.