Security operatives uncover suspected IED cell as Zagazola warn of multiple sleeper networks in Kano
By: Zagazola Makama
The recent discovery of a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) supply cell in Kano has renewed concerns over the existence of multiple terrorist sleeper cells still operating covertly within the metropolis.
At about 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 10, security operatives acting on actionable intelligence carried out a coordinated operation in the Rijiyar Lemo axis of Fagge Local Government Area, leading to the arrest of two suspects Maimuna Adam, 24, and Abubakar Mohammed, 27 both residents of Kurna Tudun Bujuwa area of Kano.
During the operation, operatives recovered materials believed to be components for IED fabrication, including 34 bags of assorted electrical wires, a dynamite and quantities of urea fertiliser. Specialist Explosive Ordnance Disposal and CBRN personnel were immediately deployed to secure the scene and neutralise any potential threat.
Zagazola Makama gathered that the suspects are undergoing intensive interrogation, while forensic and technical analysis of the recovered items is ongoing to establish their origin, intended use and possible links to wider extremist or criminal networks.
Beyond the immediate arrests, security assessments indicate that the dismantled cell is unlikely to be an isolated case. The nature and volume of the recovered items strongly suggest deliberate preparation for bomb-making rather than incidental criminal possession. The combination of dynamite, fertiliser, and bulk wiring fits established IED construction patterns used by insurgent and extremist groups, as well as by sophisticated armed bandit networks.
Of particular concern is the urban location of the cache. Kano, one of Nigeria’s largest commercial and population centres, has long been viewed as relatively insulated from large-scale terror attacks compared to the North-East. However, cities like Kano increasingly serve as logistics hubs, supply points, and concealment zones for networks whose kinetic operations occur elsewhere.
Urban cells often remain dormant, quietly sourcing and storing materials, while feeding other theatre like Zamfara state that had witnessed few cases of IEDs attacks in recent times. “Disrupting these nodes, therefore, is as critical as fighting insurgents in the forests.
The involvement of a female suspect has also drawn attention to the fact that criminal groups are increasingly deploying women in logistics, courier roles, and safe-house management, exploiting social profiling gaps to evade detection. This reflects adaptive behaviour by hostile networks. Its requires a recalibration of threat assessment models and community-level intelligence indicators.
Given Kano’s strategic importance as a transport hub linking the North-West, North-Central, and parts of the North-East, the dismantling of the suspected IED supply cell is a significant pre-emptive success as the operation may have disrupted plans for either an urban attack or the transfer of explosive materials to other states.
These cells do not necessarily carry out attacks themselves,” a source said. “Their role is to source materials, hide them, move funds and provide safe cover for operatives. What was uncovered in Rijiyar Lemo is only one node in a much wider network.”
The officials explained that Kano’s size, commercial importance and constant movement of people make it attractive for extremist groups seeking anonymity and access to supply chains, while conducting kinetic operations elsewhere.
However, Zagazola caution that the incident also draws attention to the persistent vulnerabilities, particularly in monitoring fertiliser supply chains, commercial explosives, and bulk electrical components that can be diverted for malicious use.
