Authorities Seize Large Cache of Bomb-Making Materials in Zamboanga Sibugay

By Sherman Calotes | Philippine People's Press 

TALUSAN, ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY — Law enforcement operatives seized a substantial cache of suspected bomb-making materials in a joint operation conducted in Sitio Tinago, Barangay Población, Talusan, on the morning of May 27, 2025.

The operation, led by the Zamboanga Sibugay Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA) with support from other units of the Philippine National Police, was carried out around 10:20 a.m. based on a search warrant issued by the Regional Trial Court.

Upon searching the target location, authorities recovered a significant quantity of high-risk materials, including 189 pieces of assorted time fuses, 1,021 non-electric blasting caps, 165 packs of ammonium nitrate, and two sacks of the same chemical substance. These items are commonly associated with the manufacture of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and are considered dangerous when handled improperly.

Police said the confiscated explosives could pose serious security threats if used for unlawful purposes.

An unidentified suspect was arrested during the operation and is currently under the custody of MARPSTA for documentation and further questioning. Investigators are now working to determine the source of the materials, their intended use, and whether the suspect is part of a larger network engaged in illegal explosives trade.

“The successful seizure is a result of our sustained efforts to combat the proliferation of illegal explosives in the region,” the MARPSTA said in a statement. “We are committed to ensuring the safety of our communities.”

Authorities have not ruled out the possibility that the materials were intended for use in illegal fishing or more sinister activities, such as armed violence or terrorism. Follow-up operations and background checks are ongoing to identify additional suspects and prevent similar threats.

This latest development adds to the growing list of successful police operations in the Zamboanga Peninsula aimed at curbing the circulation of unauthorized explosives and strengthening local security.

Source: Zamboanga Sibugay Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA)