Yola, April 21, 2026 — According to a statement published on the Adamawa State Police Command’s official X (formerly Twitter) platform, operatives have successfully dismantled a suspected shop-breaking ring linked to a brazen burglary spree at Palluja Market in Jimeta, Yola North Local Government Area.
The breakthrough followed a wave of distress reports from traders who woke to find their shops forcefully accessed and valuables looted under the cover of darkness. Acting decisively, operatives attached to the Doubeli Divisional Headquarters launched a targeted investigation that led to the arrest of three suspects believed to be at the heart of the operation.
The suspects — Babangida Bello (alias Bangis), 17; Gambo Abubakar, 25; and Abbas Yusuf, 35 — were apprehended across Samunaka, Nassarawo, and Demsawo communities within Yola South and North LGAs.
Preliminary findings indicate that the suspects deployed a calculated method of operation, using a bunch of master keys to gain unauthorized access to no fewer than 10 shops within the busy market. The operation, police sources reveal, was executed with precision, allowing the suspects to cart away a wide range of goods without immediate detection.
A search conducted following their arrest yielded a significant haul, including:
36 mobile phones and accessories
32 pairs of clothes
Solar-powered lights
MP3 player
Multiple padlocks and a bunch of keys
Other assorted valuables
Investigators say the recovery not only corroborates victims’ reports but also points to a potentially larger network of coordinated theft operations within the metropolis.
The Command confirmed that the suspects have confessed to their involvement and are currently in custody as investigations deepen. Authorities are working to trace possible accomplices and recover additional stolen property.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Kabir Umar Hassan, FDC, has directed a discreet yet far-reaching investigation, emphasizing that all individuals connected to the criminal enterprise will be tracked down and brought to justice.
Reaffirming its resolve, the Command stressed its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to the nearest police formation.
The suspects are expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, ANIPR
Police Public Relations Officer
For: Commissioner of Police, Adamawa State Command.
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