Plateau Police Nab Fake Soldier, Six Others Over Palm Sunday Massacre

Seven suspects in custody after deadly attack in Jos North LGA

Plateau State – Plateau State Police Command has arrested a fake soldier, Yakubu Abdullahi, along with six other suspects in connection with the Palm Sunday killings in Gari Yawaye community, Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area, which left over 30 people dead and many injured.

Police spokesman Alfred Alabo confirmed on Wednesday that Abdullahi was apprehended wearing military camouflage in what authorities described as a deliberate attempt to deceive residents and evade security checks.

“A search of the suspect led to the recovery of an extra shirt and a forged identity card of the Nigerian Military School, reinforcing suspicions of deliberate impersonation,” Alabo said.

Firearms recovered, investigations ongoing

The operation also led to the arrest of 27-year-old Matthew Musa, who was found with two locally made firearms allegedly used in attacks within the state capital.

All seven suspects are now in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID), where comprehensive investigations are ongoing to unravel the network behind the attacks. They are expected to face court charges upon conclusion of the probe.

Police reinforce security in volatile areas

Bassey Ewah, the Plateau State Commissioner of Police, has ordered the deployment of additional personnel to volatile areas across Jos and neighbouring communities to restore calm and prevent further bloodshed.

“The command will not fold its arms and allow miscreants to exploit the situation. Anyone found wanting will face the full wrath of the law,” Alabo added.

Authorities have reiterated a zero-tolerance stance on violence, vowing to hold perpetrators accountable and safeguard lives and property across Plateau State.