By Peter Omopo
Jos, July 10, 2025 — The Plateau State Police Command has commenced the trial of 22 individuals arrested in connection with the brutal killing of 13 wedding guests in the Mangun community of Mangu Local Government Area.
The victims, passengers from Kaduna State en route to a wedding in Qua’anpan Local Government Area, were attacked on June 20, 2025, after reportedly losing their way and entering Mangun market square. The assailants, described as an angry mob, descended on the group, leaving 13 dead and several others injured.
Speaking to journalists at the Command Headquarters in Jos on Thursday, the state’s Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, confirmed that investigations into the incident had been concluded and the suspects would now face trial.
“On June 20, 2025, we received a distress report at Mangu Division that a bus carrying wedding guests from Zaria, Kaduna State, had come under attack by a mob in Mangun community,” Adesina said.
He explained that officers from the Mangu Division, working in conjunction with other security agencies, responded swiftly, dispersing the mob and rescuing 21 surviving victims who were immediately taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
According to the police, the victims had been traveling in a 32-seater bus bearing the insignia of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, when they mistakenly veered off their route into the volatile area.
“Preliminary investigations confirmed that the victims were innocent travellers who had simply lost their way. Sadly, they were met with violence from members of the community,” the Commissioner added.
He commended the swift response of security personnel, which he said prevented further loss of life, and assured the public that justice would be served.
The trial, which will be conducted in a state high court, marks a critical step in addressing rising communal tensions and mob violence in parts of Plateau State. The Police Command has reiterated its commitment to restoring peace and ensuring that all those involved in the heinous act are held accountable under the law.
