The Taraba State Police Command has arrested an 18-year-old student over alleged cult-related activities after recovering an illegal firearm from his possession at a Quranic school in Jalingo, the state capital.
The command said the arrest followed a report received by the GRA Police Division at about 11:00 p.m. on July 14, 2026, from the management of Sheikh Abdullahi Bala Lau Institute for Koranic Memorization concerning a dispute between two students.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Victor Mshelizah, said preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect, identified as Usman A. Usman, an 18-year-old student from Sansani in Gassol Local Government Area, was allegedly found with a mini revolver pistol during an altercation involving the school’s Senior Prefect.
According to the police, the suspect allegedly possessed the firearm with the intention of intimidating another student involved in the disagreement.
Operatives of the GRA Division immediately arrested the suspect and recovered the revolver, which contained no ammunition.
During interrogation, Usman reportedly told investigators that he obtained the firearm from another student of the institution, identified as Akilu Alhassan, who is currently on the run.
The police said efforts were underway to arrest Alhassan and other suspected cult members believed to be connected to the incident.
The Commissioner of Police in Taraba State, Morkwap Sebastian Dongshal, has directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a comprehensive investigation into the illegal possession of the firearm and the possible involvement of other suspects.
Dongshal reaffirmed the command’s commitment to tackling cultism, illegal arms possession and other violent crimes across the state.
He urged parents, guardians, school authorities and community leaders to remain vigilant and support security agencies by promptly reporting suspicious activities capable of threatening public safety.
The police also assured residents of its continued commitment to protecting lives and property while maintaining peace and security throughout Taraba State.