The Adamawa state police command has intensified its ongoing campaign against crime and the growing menace of Shilla gangsterism with the arrest of a 19-year-old suspect allegedly found in possession of hard drugs and dangerous weapons.
The suspect, identified as Haruna Yau, a resident of Jambutu Nafan in Yola North local government council, was apprehended by police operatives during a routine patrol operation along the Doubeli Bypass in Jimeta.
According to the command, officers on patrol intercepted the suspect and conducted a search, which led to the recovery of suspected illicit substances, including Tramadol (100mg) and Diazepam tablets. Security operatives also recovered a knife and a pair of scissors from the suspect.
Police authorities said the arrest is part of a sustained operation aimed at curbing criminal activities and dismantling Shilla gangs, whose members have been linked to various acts of violence, street crimes, and public disturbances in parts of Adamawa state.
The Command noted that the operation reflects its commitment to proactive policing and intelligence-driven strategies designed to prevent crime and enhance public safety across the state.
Investigators are currently working to determine the suspect’s possible involvement in criminal activities and whether he has links to any known gang networks operating within the state. Police sources disclosed that the suspect remains in custody while investigations continue.
Authorities further confirmed that the suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation in accordance with the law.
Reacting to the development, the state commissioner of police, Command, Kabir Umar Hassan, reaffirmed the command’s resolve to rid the state of criminal elements and sustain pressure on individuals and groups engaged in unlawful activities.
The police commissioner emphasized that the fight against Shilla gangsterism and other forms of criminality remains a top priority of the command, adding that security operatives will continue to carry out surveillance, patrols, and targeted operations to safeguard communities.
He also appealed to residents to partner with law enforcement agencies by providing timely and credible information that could assist in preventing crime, apprehending suspects, and improving security across the state.
“The support and cooperation of the public remain critical to our efforts to maintain peace and security. We encourage citizens to promptly report suspicious activities and individuals to the nearest security agency,” the commissioner stated.
The police command reiterated its determination to sustain ongoing operations against criminal gangs and other threats to public safety, assuring residents that it remains committed to protecting lives and property throughout the state.
The arrest was disclosed in a statement issued on behalf of the commissioner of police by the Police Public Relations Officer, Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje.