By Anifowoshe Oladipupo
In a move toward justice, the Plateau State Police Command has commenced the trial of 22 suspects arrested in connection with the brutal killing of 13 wedding guests in Mangu Local Government Area.
The victims, who were en route to a wedding in Kwa village, Qua’anpan LGA from Kaduna State, lost their lives on June 20, 2025, after mistakenly entering Mangun market square, where they were attacked by a mob.
The Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, confirmed the development, stating that the swift arrests followed an intensive investigation and deployment of tactical units to the crime scene.
According to him, intelligence-led efforts led to the apprehension of the suspects, while six others connected to the attack remain at large.
Adesina emphasized that justice will be pursued without compromise. “We are determined to ensure that those responsible for this senseless violence are held to account.
“This is a test of our resolve to maintain law and order, and we will not fail the people of Plateau State,” he said.
The tragic incident, which shocked the nation, drew widespread condemnation and sparked calls for swift action.
The victims were reportedly travelling to the wedding when they lost their way and inadvertently drove into a tense area.
Instead of receiving assistance, they were attacked, leaving 13 dead and several others injured.
The police have charged the suspects with multiple offenses, including criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, and unlawful assembly.
Authorities said the legal proceedings will be transparent and in line with the dictates of the law.
Commissioner Adesina reiterated the police’s zero-tolerance policy toward mob violence and urged communities to avoid taking the law into their hands.
“Vigilantism is not justice. We urge all citizens to report crimes and allow the justice system to function. Nobody is above the law,” he warned.
The Plateau State Police Command also encouraged residents to provide any information that may aid in the arrest of the remaining suspects.
As the trial begins, the victims’ families and communities look to the courts for justice and healing.
The case serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of mob action and the urgent need for stronger community policing and conflict resolution mechanisms in Nigeria’s volatile regions.