Adamawa Police Arrest 11 Suspected Shilla Gang Members, Recover Weapons

YOLA —By Ojoma Yusuf,Yola

The Adamawa State Police Command has arrested 11 suspected members of the notorious Shilla gang and recovered dangerous weapons during a coordinated operation aimed at curbing violent crime in Yola North and Yola South Local Government Areas.

The operation, conducted on May 31, 2026, forms part of the command’s ongoing crackdown on gangsterism, drug abuse, and other criminal activities threatening public safety in the Jimeta and Yola metropolis.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), supported by other tactical units, raided identified criminal hideouts and black spots following intelligence reports linking the locations to gang-related activities.

The police arrested 11 suspects aged between 18 and 36 years for 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, Mukhtar Abubakar, Amir Dan Asabe, Joel Timothy, Isaac Isah, Hassan Salisu, Nyon Ayuba, Saidu Musa, Adamu Yau, Adamu Muhammed, and Nasiru Bala.

According to the police, the suspects were apprehended at various criminal flashpoints within Jimeta and Yola.

During the operation, officers recovered a cache of dangerous weapons, including knives, daggers, machetes, and cutlasses allegedly used in carrying out criminal activities.

Residents of Jimeta and Yola have for years expressed concerns over the activities of Shilla gangs, which have frequently been associated with street violence, intimidation, theft, and drug-related crimes. Security observers believe the latest arrests represent a significant step toward dismantling criminal networks operating within the state.

Speaking on the development, the Commissioner of Police, Kabir Umar Hassan, commended the operatives for their professionalism and dedication in carrying out the operation.

He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to sustaining the fight against gangsterism, thuggery, and other violent crimes, warning criminal elements to abandon unlawful activities or face the full weight of the law.

“The command will continue to deploy intelligence-driven strategies to protect lives and property and ensure a safe and secure environment for all residents,” the commissioner stated.

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 urged members of the public to support ongoing security efforts by providing timely and credible information on suspicious individuals and activities within their communities.

As authorities intensify efforts to curb criminality across Adamawa State, residents are hopeful that the latest operation will contribute to lasting peace and improved security in the Yola metropolis and beyond.