The Plateau State Police Command has arrested a man impersonating a soldier, Yakubu Abdullahi, along with six other suspects in connection with the Palm Sunday attack in Gari Yawaye community, Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area. The attack, which occurred on Sunday, March 29, left over 30 people dead and many more injured.
Police spokesman Alfred Alabo confirmed that Abdullahi was apprehended wearing military camouflage, in what authorities describe as a deliberate attempt to deceive residents and evade security checks. During a search, police recovered an extra military shirt and a forged Nigerian Military School identity card, strengthening suspicions of deliberate impersonation.
The arrests followed intensive investigations and security operations after renewed violence erupted across Jos, with pockets of unrest reported in other parts of the metropolis. Another suspect, 27-year-old Matthew Musa, was found in possession of two locally made firearms believed to have been used in attacks within affected communities.
“All seven suspects are currently in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID), where comprehensive investigations are ongoing to unravel the full network behind the attacks,” Alabo said. He added that the suspects would be charged to court upon completion of investigations.
Commissioner of Police Bassey Ewah has ordered the immediate deployment of additional personnel to volatile areas across Jos and neighbouring communities to restore calm and prevent further bloodshed.
The police have issued a stern warning to criminal elements, declaring zero tolerance for violence and lawlessness. “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 said.
