Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria — Police authorities in Plateau State, located in north central Nigeria, have arrested 21 individuals suspected of belonging to a violent cult group, alongside a teenage social media user accused of spreading false information online.
The arrests were carried out by operatives of the Plateau State Police Command, the regional arm of the Nigeria Police Force responsible for maintaining law and order in the state. The suspects are believed to be members of the Sara-Suka group, a notorious criminal gang known for violent activities in the Jos-Bukuru metropolitan area.
Okay News reports that the operation forms part of a broader security effort ordered by the Commissioner of Police in Plateau State, Bassey Ewah, aimed at reducing crime and ensuring a peaceful environment during the ongoing Ramadan period, a significant religious season observed by Muslims worldwide.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, Alfred Alabo, the suspects were apprehended during coordinated patrols and targeted raids conducted across multiple locations in the city. These operations were executed by senior police officers, including Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and specialized tactical units.
Police confirmed that the 21 suspects are currently undergoing investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department, a key unit responsible for handling serious criminal cases. Authorities stated that they will be formally charged in court once investigations are completed.
In a related development, police also arrested a 16-year-old TikTok user, Mohammed Shuaibu Adam, identified as the owner of the account @townboii1, along with his alleged accomplice, Auwal Ilyas Abdullahi, 19. Both individuals are residents of Rikkos, a community within Jos. They are accused of creating and sharing a viral video containing statements considered capable of inciting public unrest.
During questioning, the two suspects reportedly admitted to the offence. Police authorities indicated that they will also face prosecution after investigations are concluded.
Commissioner of Police Bassey Ewah praised officers involved in the operations for their dedication and urged them to continue efforts to eliminate criminal activity in the state. He also reassured residents of Plateau State of the police command’s commitment to their safety and encouraged the public to remain calm, continue their daily activities, and report any suspicious behaviour promptly.
