22 arrested over deadly mob attack on wedding bus in Plateau state

Twenty-two suspects have been apprehended by the Plateau State Police Command in connection with a horrific mob attack that resulted in the deaths of at least 12 people and left several others injured.

The brutal incident occurred on Friday, June 20, in the Mangu area when a passenger bus, carrying wedding guests, was ambushed.

The bus, en route from Zaria, Kaduna State, to Quan’pan Local Government Area, reportedly lost its way and entered a volatile section of Mangu.

According to eyewitnesses and police reports, the passengers stopped to ask for directions but were quickly surrounded by a group of youths.

Without provocation, the mob began a violent assault on the vehicle and its occupants.

Survivors described a terrifying scene where attackers descended on them with sticks, machetes, and stones.

The bus was subsequently set ablaze, with some individuals still trapped inside. Many passengers were forcibly dragged out and beaten.

Security forces responded swiftly to a distress call, managing to rescue 21 people from the scene.

However, by the time help arrived, at least 12 passengers had already been killed, and several others sustained serious injuries.

Plateau State Police Command Spokesperson, Alfred Alabo, confirmed the arrests and stated that investigations are ongoing.

He assured the public that the suspects would be prosecuted accordingly and that efforts are being intensified to prevent similar acts of violence in the future.

Human rights organization Amnesty International strongly condemned the attack, labeling it a heinous crime against innocent civilians.

The organization urged authorities to ensure that those responsible face the full force of the law and warned that the increasing trend of mob violence in Nigeria indicates an eroding public trust in the justice system.

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang also condemned the killings, expressing profound sorrow over the loss of lives.

ALSO READ :BOI launches sustainable finance framework to drive Inclusive, Climate-resilient growth

He appealed for calm within the affected communities and urged residents to refrain from vigilantism.

The governor emphasized the critical importance of community vigilance and cooperation with security agencies, especially in areas prone to ethnic and communal tensions.

This recent attack underscores growing concerns over communal violence and insecurity in Nigeria’s North-Central region.

Just two weeks prior, over 100 civilians were killed in a similar outbreak of violence in Benue State.

With escalating tensions and deepening mistrust between communities, there are increasing calls for stronger government intervention, an enhanced security presence, and genuine reconciliation efforts to address the root causes of such conflicts.

As investigations continue, the nation awaits justice for the victims of this senseless act.