The Ondo State Police Command has foiled a planned bomb attack in Akure, arresting six suspects and recovering materials suspected to be components for improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

The breakthrough was announced on Thursday, April 16, 2026, by Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal during a press briefing.

“This operation represents a major breakthrough in our ongoing efforts to combat emerging security threats across the state,” Lawal said.

The arrests were made on April 15, 2026, after credible intelligence revealed the activities of a suspected criminal syndicate operating within and beyond Ondo State.

Acting swiftly, police operatives stormed a location in Akure, apprehending the suspects before they could carry out the planned attack.

A search of the scene and the suspects’ apartment in the Oke-Odu area led to the recovery of several items.

These included 217 bottles, a bag of sugar, charms, 17 mobile phones, ₦187,000 cash, two laptops, eight slings, a knife, an external hard drive, identity cards, a National Identity Number (NIN) card, and two motorcycles.

“Preliminary findings indicate that some of the recovered materials were intended for the fabrication of explosive devices,” Lawal explained.

Investigators also found a document detailing potential target locations, suggesting a well-planned attack that could have caused significant casualties and property damage.

Warning to Landlords and Ongoing Investigations

Lawal cautioned landlords and property managers to conduct proper background checks on tenants. “We must prevent criminals from using residential buildings as operational bases,” he said.

Early investigations suggest the group was actively assembling IEDs allegedly targeted at government infrastructure.

Police believe the network may extend beyond Akure, raising concerns about wider security threats.

The suspects are now in custody while investigations continue to uncover possible collaborators and sponsors. They are expected to be charged to court upon completion of the investigation.

The Command says it has intensified surveillance across Ondo State to prevent further plots.