Police Restore Calm in Jos After Traders’ Killings, Avert Wider Unrest in Plateau State
Security tensions in Plateau State eased on Friday after the police intervened to prevent a breakdown of law and order following the killing of five traders in the Mangu Hale area.
The Plateau State Commissioner of Police, Bassey Ewah, met with leaders of the Plateau State Market Owners Association at the Police Headquarters in Jos, appealing for calm and assuring traders of the command’s commitment to justice.
The association had earlier planned to shut down markets across the state in protest and mourning, but suspended the action after talks with police authorities, agreeing that maintaining normal activities would help stabilise the environment and prevent further panic.
CP Ewah expressed condolences to the families of the victims and pledged that those responsible would be tracked down and prosecuted. He said additional police personnel and operational assets had been deployed to vulnerable areas to prevent further attacks and reassure residents.
The engagement was described as “fruitful,” with both sides reaffirming their commitment to peace and stability across Plateau State.
In a separate meeting to strengthen community policing, CP Ewah also held discussions with leaders of major transport unions, including the National Union of Road Transport Workers, the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners and the Tricycle Riders Union.
He raised concerns over traffic congestion and public safety in the Jos metropolis, urging the unions to collaborate with authorities on establishing properly regulated motor parks. The police chief also stressed the need for driver training on the Road Traffic Act and stricter discipline among members to improve road safety. The unions pledged cooperation with the police to enhance security and order on Plateau roads.
Meanwhile, the police announced the arrest of Abdulkabiru Abdullahi, a 20-year-old man accused of attempting to incite religious violence in the Dilimi area of Jos North.
According to police, the suspect allegedly snatched a phone and, when pursued, brandished a knife and falsely claimed the victim was a Christian in an attempt to provoke mob violence in a religiously sensitive community. Swift intervention by police operatives, with support from youths and elders in Dilimi, prevented what authorities described as a potentially disastrous situation.
Preliminary investigations suggest the suspect tried to exploit religious sentiments to evade arrest. He remains in custody as investigations continue.
CP Ewah commended community leaders for their restraint and cooperation, warning that the police command would show “zero tolerance” for anyone attempting to incite violence or discord. He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, reiterating the message: “Say something when you see something.”
