Plateau killing: Court remands suspects in DSS custody pending investigation

The Plateau State High Court sitting in Jos has resumed hearing in the trial of suspects linked to the Angwan Rukuba killings and other attacks, with one of the defendants, one Adamu Alhassan, entering the plead of not guilty to a six-count-charge.

When the case resumed before justice Jacob Longden at the Court 12, the Clerk interpreted the proceedings in Hausa for the defendant, for clearer understanding

The Plateau State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Philemon Daffi, informed the court that the charge sheet dated April 17 ,2026, included exhibits and witness statements.

He asked the court to read the charges to the defendant to ensure he understands them and could enter a plead

According to the charges read in court, the defendant, along with others still at large, allegedly took part in attacks on communities in Bachit, Riyom LGA, and Vom, Jos South LGAs between 2025 and January 2026. The attacks reportedly led to several deaths.

Alhassan denied all six counts, which cover criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, terrorism, unlawful possession of firearms, and illegal arms dealing.

Defence counsel, Mustapha Ibrahim, SAN, requested seven days to confer with the defendants and file necessary responses, while opposing the prosecution’s application for the defendant to remain in DSS custody.

He argued that remand at the correctional centre would better guarantee his constitutional rights and access to legal counsel.

However, the prosecution insisted that ongoing investigations and the fact that other suspects remained at large justified continued detention by the DSS.

Ruling on the application, Justice Longden adjourned the matter to May 8, 2026, for a case management conference and ordered that, the defendant remain in DSS custody pending the commencement of trial.

9News Nigeria reports that the suspects were arrested between April 3 and April 10 in connection with attacks, which triggered public outrage and renewed calls for justice for victims of violence in Plateau State.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier visited Jos, where he assured residents that those responsible for the attacks would be brought to justice.

The President also announced a N2 billion relief fund for victims of the attacks during a recent meeting with Plateau stakeholders in Abuja.

-9News Nigeria.