Police ban mining, night grazing in Plateau

The Plateau State Police Command has imposed a statewide ban on night grazing and mining activities, as security forces intensify efforts to contain a wave of deadly attacks that has claimed multiple lives across several local government areas in recent days.

The ban, announced on Saturday by the command’s spokesperson, SP Alabo Alfred, follows a string of violent incidents including killings in Angwan Rukuba, and attacks in communities across Jos South, Riyom, and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas.

On Wednesday, farmers and herders were killed in the Ban, Gero, and Du’a communities of Barkin Ladi and Jos North Local Government Areas. Two days later, on Friday night, three persons were shot dead and one other injured when gunmen invaded Nyamgo Gyel community in Jos South.

SP Alfred confirmed that the command has launched an active manhunt for the assailants responsible for the latest attack, while assuring residents that all necessary measures were being deployed to restore order.

“In response to the incident and as part of proactive measures to safeguard lives and properties, the Commissioner of Police has directed the immediate enforcement of a statewide ban on night grazing and night mining activities,” the statement read.

The command also reaffirmed that an existing total ban on commercial motorcycles within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis remains firmly in force.

In a further security measure tied to the ongoing Easter celebrations, the Commissioner of Police additionally suspended the operation of commercial tricycles, popularly known as Keke-Napep, across the state on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

Residents were urged to comply with all directives and to avoid unnecessary movements, particularly after dark.

The police, however, were careful to note that the restrictions were not intended to interfere with citizens’ lawful means of livelihood, but were solely aimed at preventing further breakdown of law and order in a state that has endured relentless violence in recent weeks.