Mokena, IL – A 31-year-old Oak Lawn man was arrested early Saturday after Mokena police said officers discovered several suspected Molotov cocktails inside his backpack during an overnight encounter.
According to the Mokena Police Department, officers encountered the man at approximately 2:52 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026, near 191st Street and LaGrange Road. Police said the man, later identified as Hamed M. Alsaidi, of Oak Lawn, was walking in the roadway and allegedly provided officers with a false name during the encounter.
Police said Alsaidi was carrying a blue blanket and a backpack. During a search of the backpack, officers allegedly found several bottles filled with gasoline and stuffed with rags, which authorities identified as Molotov cocktails.
The Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the FBI were contacted to assist with the investigation, according to police.
The Will County State’s Attorney’s Office was also consulted. Authorities said Alsaidi was subsequently charged with Unlawful Use of a Weapon and Obstructing a Peace Officer. He was booked into the Will County Jail.
Police emphasized that the allegations are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
According to the Mokena Police Department, the ATF will continue to assist with the ongoing investigation. Authorities have not released additional information regarding a possible motive or whether there is any continuing threat to the public.
