Police arrest two ‘Shilla’ gang members in Adamawa

The Adamawa State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in its crackdown on violent crime and gang activities, arresting two suspected gang members linked to multiple robberies and violent incidents in Yola North.

‘Shilla’ is a term in Adamawa State for youths who engage in criminality in rural and urban areas.

The suspects, Bagir Magaji Muhammad and Zaradeen Hadi, both aged 18, were apprehended by officers from the Anti-Narcotics Unit on November 4.

The duo, residing in Layin Chinko and Sohon Kasuwa, respectively, allegedly targeted and robbed a woman, Habiba Umar, using offensive weapons.

They reportedly stole her mobile phone before being swiftly intercepted by police detectives.

Police recovered the stolen phone, a sharp knife, and a horn, which authorities suspect was used to intimidate their victims.

Speaking on the development, Police spokesperson SP Suleiman Nguroje stated that the command, in a renewed effort to combat rising crime, is reactivating its internal control mechanisms to curb violent offences and the Shilla gang menace, which has raised significant concerns across the state.

The broader initiative aims not only to tackle gang activities but also to promote critical thinking and moral development among local youth.

Nguroje confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and hinted that additional arrests may follow as authorities work to dismantle the Shilla network and restore safety to communities in Yola.