Police move to calm tensions after protest killings in Jos

The Plateau State Police Command has stepped up security patrols and stakeholder engagement in Jos North Local Government Area following fears of reprisal attacks after four people were killed during a protest linked to earlier violence.

The unrest followed an attack in Barkin Ladi, where seven persons were reportedly killed in Dorowa Babuje community. In reaction, youths mounted a roadblock and intercepted a passenger Opel Vectra carrying civilians, selecting and killing four individuals, while another later died from injuries.

Two of the victims were said to be Hausa residents of Jos North, raising tensions across parts of the Jos metropolis, including Terminus and Gangare.

Security forces under Operation Safe Haven were swiftly deployed to flashpoints across Barkin Ladi and neighbouring districts. Authorities also intensified joint patrols, stop-and-search operations and surveillance along major roads.

Police sources said growing anxiety among residents prompted visibility patrols and consultations aimed at reassuring communities and preventing escalation.

The Commissioner of Police visited key hotspots in Jos North and met traditional and community leaders, including the palace of the Ujah Anaguta and members of the Jos North Traditional Rulers Council, urging them to promote calm and stability.

He also engaged leaders of the Jos Central Mosque, the local government chairman and other stakeholders as part of efforts to forestall further violence.

Despite the tension, commercial activities continued across the city, with major trading hubs such as Terminus Market remaining open while security personnel maintained strategic deployments and continued monitoring the situation.