The Plateau State Police Command has declared six individuals wanted in connection with the June 21 mob lynching of wedding guests in the Mangun District of Mangu Local Government Area, describing them as the masterminds behind the gruesome attack.
The victims — reportedly travelling from Zaria, Kaduna State, en route to a wedding ceremony in Quan’Pa’an LGA — were attacked after they mistakenly veered off course and entered the Mangun area, a community previously scarred by bandit and terrorist violence. The tragic misjudgment proved fatal.
According to police investigations, local youths allegedly mistook the travellers for hostile elements. In a horrifying escalation, a mob descended on the bus carrying 31 passengers, set it ablaze, and killed 22 people, including women and children.
Briefing journalists on Sunday, Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Adesina confirmed the arrest of 22 suspects following a rapid and intelligence-driven police operation.
“I am pleased to announce to you that due to the diligent and swift operation of our men, we have arrested twenty-two (22) suspects, while six (6) suspects are still at large,” said CP Adesina.
Twenty of the arrested individuals were arraigned last Friday on a four-count charge which includes:
Criminal conspiracy, Grievous bodily harm, Mischief by fire and armed robbery, Culpable homicide.
They are currently being held at the Jos Correctional Center pending further legal proceedings.
CP Adesina noted that intelligence reports have identified the six fugitives as key instigators of the violence — the individuals who allegedly mobilised and incited the mob attack.
“The Command will not rest until every individual responsible for this evil and inhuman act is apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law,” the police commissioner vowed.
He further reassured residents of Plateau State of the Command’s unwavering commitment to justice, peace, and security.
“I wish to use this opportunity to assure the good and peace-loving people of Plateau State that under my leadership, we are doing everything within the ambits of our constitutional powers to ensure no one involved escapes justice,” he added.
The incident has once again raised alarms about rising tensions, mistrust, and security lapses in central Nigeria, where ethnic and communal violence — often fueled by misinformation or past attacks — continues to claim innocent lives.
Human rights groups and civil society organisations have since called for calm, accurate information dissemination, and justice without bias as the investigation and legal processes unfold.
