DCI detectives based in Kisii Central have recovered a cache of explosives and arrested two suspects found in possession of the items.
In a statement Monday evening, the DCI said the arrest and recovery of the explosives followed intelligence reports.
The male suspects, aged 28 and 49, were arrested along Kisii-Oyugis Road when a trailer they were travelling in was flagged down by officers.
“Upon search, the officers discovered three cartons packed with 459 pieces of water gel explosives (V6) and two detonating cords, hidden in plain sight. The suspects are being held in lawful custody at Mosocho Police Station, as detectives dig deeper into the case,” the DCI said.
He said the explosives and vehicle are being held as exhibits as the two are processed for arraignment.
Water gel explosive is a fuel-sensitised explosive mixture consisting of an aqueous ammonium nitrate solution that acts as the oxidizer.
They have in most countries almost completely displaced dynamite and become the most preferred civil blasting agents.
This is because water gel explosives tend to be less toxic and are less hazardous than dynamite to manufacture, transport, store and are relatively safe and easy to use.
They are also less expensive than conventional explosives and are often used in the mining industry like in quarries to blast stones.
