Police Discover and Safely Diffuse Explosives Hidden Under Migori Bridge

A tense security alert unfolded in Nyatike Sub-county, Migori County, after police officers discovered explosive materials hidden beneath a bridge, prompting an urgent and coordinated security operation. The discovery caused panic among residents as authorities moved swiftly to secure the area and prevent potential harm.

According to Nyatike Sub-county Police Commander Juma Londo, the incident began around midday when a Good Samaritan noticed a wire protruding from the soil at the edge of the bridge and immediately alerted police. Officers responded without delay and confirmed that the wire was indeed emerging from beneath the ground near the bridge, raising serious concerns about public safety.

“At around noon, we received a report from a Good Samaritan who had seen a wire coming out from under the soil near the bridge. We came to the scene and confirmed that it was true,” Londo said on Tuesday, December 16, 2025.

Recognising the potential danger, officers quickly secured the scene and restricted movement around the bridge. The decision was made to involve specialised security units due to the suspected nature of the device and the risks involved. Commander Londo stated that early assessments suggested the explosives had been deliberately planted with harmful intentions.

“We are appealing for information so that we can identify those involved, because this was done with bad intentions meant to cause harm,” he added.

How did police respond to the explosives alert in Migori?

A multi-agency security team was deployed to manage the situation and ensure the safety of residents. The operation brought together officers from the Kenya Police Service, detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, the Anti-Terror Police Unit, bomb disposal experts, and sniffer dogs. The bridge was fully closed as a precaution, and residents were barred from crossing while the sweep was underway.

Although the sudden closure caused concern among locals, police officers took time to explain the situation. Once residents understood the gravity of the threat, they cooperated and maintained a safe distance as the operation continued. This cooperation played a key role in allowing security teams to work without interference.

During the inspection, bomb disposal experts uncovered an explosive device buried beneath the soil. Further excavation revealed seven pieces of explosives and a detonating cord. Investigators established that the materials had been planted in a hole drilled using a compressor machine, pointing to careful planning and technical effort.

The bomb disposal unit followed established safety procedures to neutralise the threat. The explosives were removed methodically to avoid accidental detonation, and the area was later declared safe for the public.

“The explosives were removed in a controlled and professional manner. The operation ended safely, and no one was injured,” Commander Londo said.

What happens next after the explosives are recovered?

Following the successful operation, the recovered explosive materials were taken by the Migori bomb disposal unit for forensic examination. Authorities plan to analyse the components to establish their origin and identify those responsible. After forensic processes are complete, the explosives will be destroyed in line with safety regulations.

Investigations are ongoing as police intensify efforts to track down suspects linked to the incident. Security agencies are also appealing to members of the public to share any information that could assist in the investigation.

The incident comes at a sensitive time, as President William Ruto is expected to attend the Pinyluo Cultural Festival in Migori County. While police have not directly linked the explosives to the upcoming event, the discovery has heightened security awareness across the region.

By Lucky Anyanje