Three people were killed and one injured when gunmen ambushed a group returning from a mining site in Chwel Nyango Community, Jos South Local Government Area, at about 9:20 p.m. on Friday. The Plateau State Police Command confirmed the attack and launched a manhunt for the unidentified assailants. Police Public Relations Officer Alfred Alabo said a distress call prompted immediate deployment of officers, including a patrol team led by the Divisional Police Officer of 'B' Division, Bukuru. The injured victim was evacuated to a hospital and is receiving treatment.
Commissioner of Police Bassey Ewah described the attack as "senseless" and extended condolences to the victims' families. In response, the police imposed a statewide ban on night grazing and night mining. The existing ban on commercial motorcycles in Jos-Bukuru remains in force, and a temporary ban on Keke Napep operations was introduced on Sunday, 5 April, due to Easter security concerns. Residents were urged to limit night movement and report suspicious activities.
The attack follows earlier violence in Angwan Rukuba on Palm Sunday. Despite President Bola Tinubu's recent assurances of improved security during his visit to Plateau, fresh incidents underscore ongoing challenges. Police have intensified deployments and vowed suspects will face the full weight of the law.
President Tinubu's promise of justice after visiting Plateau now faces another test less than a week after his reassurance. The recurrence of deadly attacks, including this ambush in Chwel Nyango, suggests security measures are not translating into safety on the ground. Banning night mining and Keke Napep may disrupt livelihoods more than criminal networks. For ordinary residents, the cycle of violence and reactive orders offers little real protection.
