The Kaduna State Police Command has uncovered military-grade explosives and firearms concealed in a consignment of waste materials transported into the state from Borno, sparking alarm over the unchecked movement of potentially dangerous items from conflict-affected regions.
According to a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, the discovery was made on August 2, 2025, following credible intelligence received by security operatives.
The explosives were located at a scavenger facility in the Kudandan Industrial Area of Kaduna South Local Government Area.
“A specialised team from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit, led by its commander, responded swiftly to the scene,” Hassan stated. “Following a detailed inspection, the items were confirmed to be unexploded ordnance (UXOs).”
The EOD unit safely evacuated the explosives to a secure location, where they were later detonated in a controlled environment, in line with established safety protocols.
In addition to the explosives, the police also recovered:
- One locally made revolver pistol, loaded with six rounds
- Fifteen rounds of 7.2mm live ammunition
- Three live cartridges
- Other assorted ammunition
Commissioner of Police, CP Rabiu Muhammad, ordered the immediate sealing of the scavenger site to allow a thorough search by EOD experts, ensuring no other hidden explosives remained on the premises.
The Commissioner condemned the importation of scrap and waste materials from insurgency-plagued areas like Borno, warning scavenger companies across the state to cease such practices immediately.
He assured the public that investigations are underway to determine the source and purpose of the recovered explosives, and to bring any responsible parties to justice.
