Operatives of the Plateau State Police Command have detained multiple suspects linked to cult activities, banditry, and violent assaults across different parts of the state.

Speaking to reporters at the command headquarters in Jos, Commissioner of Police Bassey Ewah said the arrests followed intelligence-led operations aimed at curbing crime ahead of the festive period.

One of those held is 31-year-old David Ponnan, arrested near JUTH in Lamingo on April 29. Police said they found a locally fabricated double-barrel pistol, a pump-action cartridge, and a human skull in his possession. According to Ewah, Ponnan told investigators he took the gun from a vigilante and kept it for himself. The case is still under investigation.

Two days later, officers from Nassarawa Gwong Division picked up nine people in Jos North over alleged conspiracy, assault, and cult-related violence. The suspects, from Bulbula and Dilimi, are accused of attacking residents with weapons and seriously injuring one victim. Police say the individuals belong to rival cult groups operating in the Dilimi area.

In Wase LGA, officers intercepted Musa Adamu and Mohammed Abubakar in Gudus village. They are suspected of involvement in banditry and were stopped on a route often used by armed groups to launch attacks on nearby communities.

Ewah stated that the command will continue to target criminal networks and urged residents to share information that can help maintain security in Plateau.