YOLA, Nigeria — June 26, 2025
The Adamawa State Police Command has apprehended a 29-year-old suspected armed robber, Zephaniah Alfred, who had been on the police’s wanted list for a series of violent crimes along the Numan–Gombe Road axis.
In an official statement released on Wednesday, Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Nguroje, confirmed the arrest, which was triggered by a complaint from one Ibrahim Maikano. Maikano reported that Alfred had threatened to kill him, prompting swift action by operatives from the Numan Divisional Police Headquarters.
“On the strength of that, operatives of the Command attached to Numan Divisional Police Headquarters, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), apprehended the suspect,” Nguroje stated.
The suspect, who has long eluded capture, was wanted in connection with a series of armed robbery operations that have terrorised commuters and residents in the Numan-Gombe corridor and neighbouring areas.
Weapons and Military Gear Recovered
Following his arrest, police executed a search warrant at Alfred’s residence, uncovering an alarming cache of weapons and military paraphernalia. Items recovered include:
- One (1) locally made pistol
- Two (2) live AK-47 ammunition rounds
- One (1) live pistol ammunition
- One (1) live cartridge
- One (1) pair of military camouflage uniform
- Four (4) military camouflage caps
- Two (2) military camouflage T-shirts
- One (1) black torchlight
Nguroje confirmed that the recovered items are being treated as evidence as part of an ongoing investigation.
Suspect in Custody, Investigation Underway
The suspect is currently in police custody and is said to be cooperating with investigators. Authorities believe Alfred may be connected to other criminal networks operating within and beyond Adamawa State.
The arrest marks a significant breakthrough for the command in its ongoing efforts to curb violent crimes in the region. The police have reiterated their commitment to maintaining security and urged members of the public to continue providing timely and actionable intelligence.
“This arrest is a testament to the effectiveness of community cooperation with law enforcement. We urge residents to remain vigilant and continue to support the police in the fight against crime,” the police spokesman added.
The suspect is expected to be formally charged upon the conclusion of the investigation.