The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested eight suspected street thugs as part of a renewed operation targeting violent crime and gang-related activities across the state capital.
According to Arewa PUNCH, the arrests were carried out by operatives of the newly established Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) following intelligence reports of a violent confrontation involving rival groups of armed youths in Bauchi metropolis.
Police spokesperson, SP Ahmed Wakil, said the incident occurred on May 29, 2026, when suspected thugs from the Sabuwar Kasuwa Railway and Sabuwar Titi communities allegedly clashed near the Fadan Bayam area of Jahun, disrupting movement and creating panic among residents.
Wakil explained that the rival groups were reportedly armed with sticks, cutlasses, and other dangerous weapons when they blocked a major road in the area.
Upon receiving intelligence about the disturbance, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit swiftly mobilised to the scene, dispersed the hoodlums using teargas, and restored normalcy.
During the operation, officers arrested 16-year-old Abdulaziz Hashim, who was allegedly found in possession of a cutlass.
The police spokesman revealed that further investigations led to the arrest of seven additional suspects on May 31, all believed to be connected to the violent clash.
The suspects were identified as Mohammed Abubakar (21), Ibrahim Almustafa (15), Ahmad Rufai (14), Umar Isiyaka (16), Habir Umar (18), Aliyu Babangida (15), and Usman Aliyu.
According to the command, the suspects were apprehended at different locations following intelligence-led operations carried out by the VCRU.
Police authorities disclosed that all eight suspects have been interrogated and charged to court, while efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest other members of the group who fled after the operation.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, commended the officers involved for their professionalism and rapid response in preventing the situation from escalating further.
The commissioner reiterated the command’s commitment to dismantling criminal gangs, tackling youth violence, and ensuring residents can go about their daily activities without fear.
He also urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children and wards, warning that involvement in thuggery, gang violence, and other criminal activities could have serious consequences.
The latest arrests come amid growing concerns over the increasing involvement of minors in gang-related activities across parts of Bauchi State.
Security experts have warned that youth violence and street gang activities pose a significant threat to public safety if left unchecked, prompting calls for stronger community engagement and preventive measures.
Police authorities said the creation of the Violent Crime Response Unit is part of broader efforts to combat emerging security threats, improve intelligence gathering, and strengthen law enforcement operations across the state.
