The Bauchi State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 15 suspects following a violent clash between rival youth groups in Azare, Katagum Local Government Area, which left at least 10 individuals seriously injured.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, July 5, 2026, reportedly involved youths from the Tsakuwa and Matsango communities.
According to police sources, a distress call was received at about 12:15 a.m., prompting the immediate deployment of patrol teams to the scene.
Security operatives swiftly intervened and dispersed the rioters using minimal force, effectively preventing further escalation of the violence.
Preliminary reports indicate that the injured victims sustained serious wounds and were rushed to the Federal University Health Sciences Teaching Hospital in Azare for urgent medical attention.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Nafiu Habib, disclosed that 15 suspects have been apprehended in connection with the clash, while efforts are ongoing to track down other individuals who fled the scene.
In response to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, led a team of senior officers on an on-the-spot assessment visit to the affected communities.
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During the visit, he commended the swift response of security personnel, including the Area Commander, Divisional Police Officer, Police Mobile Force, and other specialized units, for preventing further destruction and possible loss of lives.
The police commissioner also visited victims receiving treatment at the hospital and later paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Katagum, Alhaji Umar Faruq II.
The monarch praised the prompt intervention of the police and pledged the emirate’s support in identifying and bringing perpetrators to justice.
Aliyu has directed the immediate commencement of round-the-clock patrols and enhanced surveillance in the affected areas to forestall any reprisal attacks.
He further ordered a thorough investigation into both the immediate and underlying causes of the clash, with a focus on apprehending and prosecuting key instigators.
He urged parents, community leaders, religious figures, and youth groups to embrace dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution, warning that anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law.
The police command assured residents that normalcy is gradually returning to the area and encouraged them to continue their lawful activities without fear, as security presence has been significantly reinforced.
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