Police Initiate Manhunt Following Fatal Attack in Plateau

The Plateau State Police Command has initiated a comprehensive manhunt for individuals suspected of perpetrating an attack that resulted in three fatalities and one injury in the Chwel Nyango Community, located in Jos South Local Government Area.

According to the police, the assault took place around 9:20 p.m. on Friday, when the victims were ambushed while making their way back from a mining location.

In a statement released on Saturday, the state's Police Public Relations Officer, Alfred Alabo, confirmed that the command received an urgent distress call, prompting the swift deployment of police personnel to the scene.

"Unidentified armed assailants ambushed and opened fire on a group of individuals who were returning from work at a mining site, resulting in the death of three persons, while one other sustained injuries," Mr. Alabo stated.

He further reported that a police patrol team, under the command of the Divisional Police Officer of ‘B’ Division, Bukuru, was dispatched to the affected area. The injured victim was promptly transported to a hospital for medical attention and is currently receiving treatment.

The Commissioner of Police for the state, Bassey Ewah, extended his sympathies to the bereaved families, condemning the incident as "senseless."

In the wake of the attack, the police announced the implementation of new security directives across the state.

Mr. Alabo indicated that the Commissioner has ordered the immediate enforcement of a statewide prohibition on night grazing and night mining operations.

He also reconfirmed that the existing ban on the operation of commercial motorcycles within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis remains in effect.

These measures, he explained, are designed to curb further attacks and enhance public safety.

Furthermore, the police have imposed a temporary restriction on the operation of commercial tricycles, commonly known as Keke Napep, on Sunday, April 5, citing security concerns during the Easter period.

Residents have been urged to limit unnecessary movement after dark and to promptly report any suspicious activities to the relevant security agencies.

The recent directive follows a pattern of violent incidents reported in the state.

Earlier reports detailed the killing of residents in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North, on Palm Sunday, an event that heightened tensions, led to retaliatory actions, and prompted an increased security presence.

Subsequent attacks and disturbances in various parts of Jos and its environs have continued to fuel concerns regarding the general state of security.

President Bola Tinubu, during a recent visit to Plateau, assured the populace that security agencies are committed to apprehending those responsible for the violence and preventing future occurrences.

Despite these assurances and the ongoing efforts by security forces, incidents like the Chwel Nyango attack underscore the persistent fragility of the security situation.

The police department has confirmed an increased deployment of personnel in vulnerable areas and is actively working to bring the perpetrators to justice.

"The command remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining peace and order throughout the state," Mr. Alabo added, emphasizing that efforts are underway to ensure the perpetrators face legal consequences.