The Plateau State Police Command has apprehended 22 suspects in connection with a violent mob attack on travelers in Mangu Local Government Area on June 20, 2025.
The arrest was confirmed by the state’s Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina, during a press briefing on July 10, 2025.
In his statement, CP Adesina also provided details of the police efforts to ensure justice for the victims and bring the attackers to account.
The incident occurred when a 32-seater bus, transporting passengers from Kaduna State, was ambushed by a mob at the Mangun market square in Mangu.
The victims, who were on their way to a wedding in Qua’anpan Local Government Area, got lost in the market area, which led to the attack.
CP Adesina explained, “On June 20, 2025, we received a report from Mangu Division indicating that a bus carrying passengers traveling from Zaria to attend a wedding had been attacked by a mob at the Mangun market square.
“The victims, 21 in total, were rescued by our officers and other security agencies and quickly rushed to the hospital for medical attention.”
He continued, “Upon receiving the report, I instructed the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Mangu to mobilize a team to the scene. Our officers, alongside other security agencies, managed to disperse the mob and safely rescue the victims.
“The passengers, who were from Zaria, were traveling on a bus marked ‘Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.’ They had lost their way and unfortunately found themselves in the midst of the attack.”
Following the attack, the Plateau State Police Command launched a thorough investigation, deploying the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and the State Intelligence Department (SID) to gather intelligence and assist in apprehending the perpetrators.
CP Adesina added, “In response to the attack, I personally visited the scene on June 21, 2025, along with my management team and heads of other security agencies. We assessed the situation on the ground and took appropriate steps to prevent further escalation.
“As a result of the swift action by our officers, 22 suspects have been arrested. However, six suspects are still at large, and efforts are ongoing to locate and apprehend them.”
In his remarks, CP Adesina assured the people of Plateau State that the police command would continue to ensure the safety and security of citizens.
He also called on the public to cooperate with the police and report any suspicious activities.
“We will ensure that all those involved in this attack are arrested and brought to justice. The law will take its course,” he stated.
“I urge the public, particularly the youth, not to take the law into their own hands. Instead, they should report any illegal activities to the nearest police station or security agency.”
“The suspects will face the full force of the law, and we are committed to ensuring justice is served,” CP Adesina concluded.
