Eleven teenagers, all under the age of 16, have been arrested by the Yobe State Police Command for illegal gathering and the consumption of suspected banned liquid substances.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Dungus Abdulkarim, in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital.
According to the statement, “On 30th October 2025, at about 0450hrs, operatives of the ‘A’ Division Police Headquarters conducted a targeted raid at a known black spot within the Pawari Forestry area.”
Abdulkarim explained that the eleven suspects, all below the age of 16 and residents of different areas in Maiduguri, Borno State, were found at an illegal gathering during odd hours.
Items suspected to be harmful or illicit liquid substances were recovered at the scene.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the minors confessed to involvement in pickpocketing and mobile phone theft, mainly within crowded areas and markets.
He added that efforts are ongoing to contact and trace their parents or guardians. The command noted that juveniles are often vulnerable to peer influence, exploitation, and involvement in criminal activities when proper guidance is lacking.
However, the police do not treat children as criminals but as persons in need of care, guidance, and rehabilitation. It therefore urged parents, guardians, community, and religious leaders to pay close attention to the movements and associations of their children.
They were also advised to ensure that minors return home early, are not allowed to roam unmonitored especially at night and are engaged in constructive activities such as schooling, vocational training, sports, and skills acquisition.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public safety and protecting vulnerable children from exploitation.
LEADERSHIP Weekend gathered that parents and guardians have been urged to report suspicious gatherings or the presence of unknown adults influencing minors. Children, it emphasised, are the shared responsibility of both the family and the community. Early guidance prevents future crime; neglect encourages it.
