By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Bauchi State Police Command says its newly created Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) has recorded a significant success in efforts to curb street violence in the state capital after apprehending eight suspected thugs linked to a clash between rival groups.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Bauchi State Command, on June 2, 2026.
According to the statement, the incident occurred on May 29, 2026, at about 8:10 p.m. when VCRU operatives on patrol in the Jahun area received information that rival groups from Sabuwar Kasuwa Railway and Sabuwar Titi had engaged in a violent confrontation near the Fadan Bayam area of Jahun.
Police said members of the groups allegedly blocked a major road and were armed with sticks and cutlasses during the clash.
Upon receiving the report, officers moved to the scene, dispersed the hoodlums with teargas and restored order in the area. During the operation, one suspect identified as Abdulaziz Hashim, 16, of Sabuwar Kasuwa Railway, was arrested with a cutlass.
The command stated that further investigations led to the identification and arrest of seven additional suspects on May 31, 2026. They were listed as Mohammed Abubakar, 21, of Sabuwar Kasuwa; Ibrahim Almustafa, 15, of Sabuwar Kasuwa; Ahmad Rufai, 14, of Unguwan Jaja; Umar Isiyaka, 16, of Sabuwar Kasuwa; Habir Umar, 18, of Sabuwar Kasuwa; Aliyu Babangida, 15, of Sabuwar Kasuwa; and Usman Aliyu of Unguwan Jaja.
Police said all the suspects were interrogated and subsequently charged to court, while efforts continue to track down other members of the group who escaped arrest.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, mni, psc (+), praised the VCRU operatives for what he described as their swift response and professionalism.
He also reaffirmed the command’s determination to dismantle criminal gangs and maintain security across Bauchi metropolis for law-abiding residents.
The police further urged parents and guardians to discourage their children and wards from participating in thuggery and other violent activities that could threaten public peace.
