Plateau Police Arrest Six Suspects in Cattle‑Theft Investigation and Seize Firearms

Plateau State Police Command announced the arrest of six suspects linked to cattle rustling, criminal conspiracy, and possession of illegal firearms.

State Police Commissioner CP Bassey Ewah disclosed the arrests on Friday, stating that the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) of the command carried them out after intensive monitoring and intelligence gathering by operatives.

During the formal inauguration of the VCRU at the Command headquarters in Jos, the Police Commissioner explained that the unit was established following directives from former Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, aligning with the police mandate to protect lives and property across Plateau State.

In a briefing to reporters, the Police chief noted that one suspect, Yahuza Sale, was arrested after a viral Facebook video allegedly capable of inciting fear and public unrest. Detectives from the Pankshin Division apprehended Sale immediately after receiving intelligence reports, and during interrogation he confessed to involvement in cattle rustling alongside Victor Danladi, also known as Boka.

“The suspect, Mr Sale, reportedly told investigators they used locally made AK‑47 rifles and revolvers during operations,” Ewah said.

“The Intelligence Response Team later arrested Danladi following Mr Sale’s confession. Police recovered two locally made AK‑47 rifles, three rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition and one locally made pump‑action gun. Investigations are ongoing and suspects will be charged after their completion.”

“Under my leadership, the Plateau Police Command remains committed to proactive, intelligence‑driven policing and community partnership,” Ewah added. “The police cannot succeed alone. Provide credible information and we will act swiftly to protect you.”

The Police Commissioner, who also inaugurated the VCRU, urged residents of the state to trust the unit and cooperate with the force to stamp out crime.

“The VCRU is your unit. Its success depends on trust and cooperation between the police and the community,” he said. “The inauguration of the Violent Crime Response Unit today fulfills the I‑G’s directive for a force that is professional, humane, accountable and effective.”

“This unit answers growing demands for faster, more precise and professional responses to violent crime,” he added, noting that the VCRU will operate under a Civilian Oversight Board comprising traditional rulers, civil society groups, lawyers and human rights advocates.

He said officers underwent intensive screening, selection and specialised training before deployment.

“Every officer selected has been prepared for operational excellence, disciplined conduct and unwavering respect for human rights. Their mandate is to confront violent crimes referred to them by the command for further investigation. We are equipping them to act with speed, precision and integrity because justice delayed and justice abused are both justice denied.”

“Impunity, misconduct and abuse of power will not be tolerated under my watch,” Ewah said.