ABUJA, Nigeria — Following a surge in violent attacks in Plateau State, Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the immediate deployment of tactical police units to the region to curb ongoing violence and restore order.
The move comes after a string of attacks, including one on Friday, April 4, 2025, when suspected bandits killed over 10 people in the Bokkos Local Government Area (LGA).
The death toll in the area has since risen to 52.
The attacks follow a similar assault in the Ruwi community of Bokkos LGA a week earlier, where mourners gathered at a deceased person’s residence were targeted.
Egbetokun, quoted by Force Spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi, said the deployment was part of urgent efforts to bring the escalating violence under control.
“This operation is focused on not just suppressing the current wave of violence but also preventing future attacks,” Egbetokun said in a statement.
The intervention, which will be led by Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) Kwazhi Yakubu, who is in charge of operations, will see the deployment of tactical teams and the use of surveillance drones to monitor the area.
The police force will also make use of Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs), specialized platoons from the Special Intervention Squad (SIS), and helicopters to assist in operations.
The first attack occurred on Friday, March 28, 2025, when armed assailants launched a brutal raid on Bokkos, resulting in the deaths of several individuals and leaving many others seriously injured.
This incident marked the beginning of a series of violent attacks, which have instilled fear in the region.
DIG Yakubu will oversee the deployment of reinforcements, including highly trained tactical personnel, and will also coordinate efforts to ensure the safety of residents.
He is expected to arrive in Plateau State on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, and will meet with Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State to discuss the situation.
During the meeting, DIG Yakubu conveyed the IGP’s condolences to the affected families and the people of Plateau State.
The discussion also focused on understanding the root causes of the attacks and formulating a long-term strategy to prevent further violence.
