CIDG Arrests Two, Seizes Explosives in Zamboanga City Operation

In a significant crackdown on illegal explosives, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) conducted a successful buy-bust operation in Zamboanga City on February 6, 2025. The operation, which took place in Barangay Rio Hondo, led to the arrest of two suspects identified as alias ‘Arjemhar’ and ‘Gamar’. The CIDG operatives managed to seize a substantial amount of explosive materials, including 2,000 pieces of blasting caps, 2,000 pieces of improvised non-electric blasting caps, three rolls of safety fuse commercial, five plastic bags containing suspected trinitrotoluene (TNT), and two spool lights with pink detonating cords. Additionally, the operatives confiscated the boodle money used in the transaction and a sports utility vehicle. CIDG chief Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III emphasized that the arrests were made due to the illegal possession, trade, acquisition, or disposal of explosives and related devices, which could potentially be used for terroristic attacks. This operation is part of broader efforts to neutralize criminal elements and prevent threats to the upcoming May 12 elections. The suspects now face charges under Section 32 of Republic Act 7166 and Rule IV, Section 8 of Comelec Resolution No. 11067 for unlawfully handling deadly weapons during the election period.