The Adamawa state police command has arrested 11 suspected members of the notorious Shilla gang and recovered dangerous weapons and illicit substances during a coordinated operation across Yola North and Yola South local government council.

The operation, carried out on May 31, 2026, was part of the Command’s ongoing efforts to combat Shilla gangsterism and other violent crimes within the Jimeta and Yola metropolis. Police operatives from the state Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and other tactical units raided identified criminal hideouts and hotspots linked to criminal activities.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, the suspects were arrested for their alleged involvement in gangsterism, violent attacks, unlawful possession of offensive weapons, and the sale and consumption of prohibited substances.

The suspects were identified as Aliyu Idris (18), Mukhtar Abubakar (28), Amir Dan Asabe (23), Joel Timothy (23), Isaac Isah (26), Hassan Salisu (19), Nyon Ayuba (32), Saidu Musa (22), Adamu Yau (20), Adamu Muhammed (36), and Nasiru Bala (20).

Police said the suspects were apprehended at various criminal flashpoints within Jimeta and Yola South. During the operation, officers recovered a cache of dangerous weapons, including knives, daggers, machetes, and cutlasses allegedly used in carrying out criminal activities.

The Commissioner of Police, Kabir Umar Hassan, commended the operatives for the successful operation and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to eliminating gangsterism, thuggery, and other violent crimes across the state.

He warned criminal elements to abandon their unlawful activities or face the full force of the law, stressing that the Command remains determined to ensure the safety and security of residents.

Following the completion of investigations, the suspects were arraigned before a competent court for prosecution. The court subsequently ordered their remand in a correctional custodial centre pending further legal proceedings.

The Police Command also appealed to members of the public to continue supporting law enforcement efforts by providing timely and credible information on suspicious individuals and activities within their communities. (Guardian)