Bamenda: Gendarmes dismantle improvised explosive device factory, arrest four suspects.

We gathered that this was in the early hours of December 30, 2025, at about 2a.m.

The operation is said to have been jointly executed by officers of the North West Gendarmerie Legion and the Bamenda Territorial Gendarmerie Group. 

We gathered that it followed intelligence reports declaring the existence of an illegal explosives manufacturing site in the area. According to security sources, the raid was carefully planned and swiftly executed to avoid civilian casualties and prevent the possible removal of incriminating material.

According to gendarmerie, four individuals were, during the operation, arrested at the scene. 

Gendarmes are also said to have uncovered and dismantled a makeshift facility allegedly used for the production of IEDs.

We further gleaned that several items suspected to be used in the fabrication of IEDs were seized, including tools, containers and other components believed to be used in assembling the explosive devices.

The discovery of the factory is said to have raised concerns about the circulation of locally made explosives and the potential threat they pose to public safety in Bamenda and its environs. 

Security officials are said to have revealed that the devices are often used in acts of violence that target both civilians and security personnel, contributing to aggravating the insecurity in the region.

The four suspects are said to have been carried to the headquarters of the North West Gendarmerie Legion, where they are being held for further questioning. 

An investigation is said to have been opened to determine the origin of the materials used, the intended destinations, and whether the suspects are linked to a wider network involved in the manufacture or distribution of IEDs.

Security authorities have reiterated their determination to continue operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and illegal armed activities in the region. 

They have also called on the population to collaborate with defense and security forces by providing credible information that could help prevent acts capable of endangering lives and property.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3665 of Tuesday January 06, 2026