The Plateau State Police Command has begun the trial of 22 suspects arrested in connection with the killing of 13 wedding guests in Mangun community, Mangu Local Government Area.
The tragic incident occurred on 20 June 2025, when a bus conveying passengers from Kaduna State was attacked by a mob, resulting in several deaths and injuries.
Briefing journalists in Jos on Thursday, Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Adesina said the command promptly deployed personnel and resources to the scene, which led to the arrest of suspects now facing prosecution.
“On June 20, we received a report at Mangu Division that a bus carrying passengers from Kaduna was attacked at Mangun market square. I immediately directed the DPO to lead a response team,” Adesina stated.
“On arrival, our men, with support from other security agencies, dispersed the mob and rescued 21 victims, who were taken to hospital for treatment,” he said.
Investigations revealed that the travellers were from Zaria, Kaduna State, en route to a wedding ceremony at Kwa village in Qua’anpan LGA when they lost their way and were attacked. The vehicle, a 32-seater bus, was marked ‘Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria’.
Adesina said he had deployed detectives from the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Departments, alongside tactical units, to aid in the manhunt.
“On June 21, I personally led a team to the scene, alongside other security agency heads, to assess the situation and restore calm,” he added.
So far, 22 suspects have been arrested, while six others remain at large.
The commissioner assured residents of the command’s commitment to ensuring justice.
“I want to reassure the peace-loving people of Plateau that we are doing everything legally possible to ensure all those involved in this heinous act are brought to justice,” he said.
He urged citizens, particularly youths, to avoid mob action and report suspicious activities to security agencies.