Operatives of the Zamfara Community Protection Guards (CPG), widely referred to as “Askarawa,” have intercepted a shipment of explosive materials, large amounts of cash, and other supplies allegedly intended for bandits in Bindin village, located in Maru Local Government Area.
The CPG State Commandant, retired AIG Shehu Muhammad Dalijan, revealed this while presenting the suspects and recovered items to journalists at the CPG headquarters in Gusau. He explained that the operation was carried out based on credible intelligence about a suspicious vehicle that left Danhasiya Plaza in Gusau heading toward Bindin village, an area believed to be under the control of bandits.
Dalijan stated that the operatives successfully stopped the vehicle, bearing registration number KMC 120-XR, and arrested the driver along with six other suspects. Items recovered included ₦13,352,500 in cash, 98 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) suspected to be dynamite, 25 coil detonators, three new motorcycles, Android phones, cigarettes, apples, four jerrycans of diesel, three jerrycans of palm oil, and tools such as shovels and diggers.
He added that the suspects would be handed over to the police for further investigation and possible prosecution.
During interrogation, the driver, Abubakar Abdullahi Dangulbi, claimed he was hired by one Aliyu Labaran to deliver the money to Alhaji Abubakar Bindin on behalf of Nasiru Dan Zuru, who is currently at large. He also said the explosives were meant for an individual identified as Jamilu Lingyado in Bindin village.
However, he maintained that he was unaware of the contents of the items he transported, insisting he was only responsible for delivery.
Dalijan warned that the ongoing insecurity in Zamfara is being fueled by collaborators who provide logistics, intelligence, and supplies to bandits. He noted that the intercepted explosives were likely intended for attacks that could result in significant casualties among civilians and security personnel.
He reaffirmed the CPG’s determination to intensify efforts against criminal groups and restore peace across the state. He also praised the Zamfara State Government for its logistical support, assuring that the resources provided would be used effectively in combating banditry.
The interception has heightened concerns among security experts that banditry in Zamfara is being sustained by organized supply networks, prompting calls for stronger surveillance and efforts to dismantle these channels.
