The Oyo State Police Command has intercepted a truck loaded with 40 bags of explosives in an intelligence driven operation that prevented what security officials described as a possible major threat.
The interception took place late on Friday night at about 11.10 pm in the Sango area of Saki. Police operatives stopped a DAF truck with registration number Ogun SGM 765 XB during a routine but targeted security check.
The driver of the vehicle, identified as 30 year old Mutairu Yusuf, a resident of Atiru Compound, Chikanda in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, was immediately arrested after the dangerous contents were discovered.
Preliminary findings by the police revealed that the explosives were reportedly loaded in Ibadan and were being transported to Chikanda, a border community in Kwara State known for its strategic position as a trade and transit route to the Republic of Benin.
A counter terrorism and security analyst, Zagazola Makama, described the operation as “a timely intervention that prevented a serious security threat,” adding that the manner in which the explosives were concealed pointed to a coordinated and well planned movement.
Following the interception, the police launched a joint investigation involving the Police Monitoring Unit and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear team. The combined team is currently working to determine the source of the explosives, their intended end users, and the purpose for which they were being transported.
Security sources noted that Chikanda’s location along the Nigeria Benin border makes it a major commercial checkpoint, but also exposes it to risks associated with cross border crimes, including the illegal movement of arms and explosives.
The police said the operation reflects sustained efforts by security agencies to dismantle networks involved in the trafficking of prohibited weapons and dangerous materials across the region.
Residents have been urged to remain alert and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies, as authorities continue investigations into the intercepted explosives and possible accomplices.
