The Gombe State Police Command has strongly condemned the recent attack on Powishi Village in Billiri Local Government Area, which claimed the life of Mallam Yusuf Akwara and left widespread devastation.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of December 12, 2024, involved suspected herders armed with dangerous weapons. The assailants stormed the village on motorbikes, killing Akwara, burning houses, and stealing an unspecified number of livestock.
In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Buhari Abdullahi, the Commissioner of Police, Hayatu Usman, expressed his outrage over the attack and described it as a “cowardly act of violence.” Following the incident, the Commissioner, alongside other security chiefs and local government officials, conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the destruction and met with affected families and community leaders.
The police revealed that a swift response was coordinated by a combined team of officers and personnel from the 301 Artillery Regiment, led by the Billiri Area Commander. Although the attackers fled before security forces arrived, efforts by neighboring communities and law enforcement helped extinguish the fires and prevent further damage.
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To expedite justice, detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department, along with personnel from the 34PMF and 59PMF units, have been deployed to track down the perpetrators. The Commissioner of Police has assured the public that no stone will be left unturned in bringing those responsible to book.
“This attack is unwarranted and mischievous. We are resolute in our commitment to apprehend the culprits and ensure they face justice. We urge the public to remain calm and cooperate with the police during this investigation,” Usman stated.
Residents are encouraged to report any information that could aid the investigation. The Command has provided emergency contact numbers, 08150567771 and 09036435359, for urgent communication regarding the incident or related security concerns.
