Aug 4, 2026

Gunmen Ambush Plateau Patrol, Kill Police Inspector and Air Force Corporal

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

👁️ loading views...

Jos, Plateau State—August 4, 2026— Gunmen on Tuesday ambushed a joint security patrol in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, killing a police inspector and a Nigerian Air Force corporal before escaping with their service weapons.

According to security intelligence sources, the attack occurred around 5:00 a.m. along the Ganawuri–Sabon Gida road.

Four security personnel drawn from two guard locations had mounted a snap roadblock. While returning to their duty posts after the operation, two of the officers failed to arrive, prompting an immediate search.

Troops later discovered the bodies of Inspector John Zakaria of the Nigeria Police Force and Lance Corporal Mohammed Musa of the Nigerian Air Force.

Their weapons had been taken by the attackers. The bodies were evacuated from the scene, and the motorcycle used by the personnel was recovered.

Preliminary findings indicate the ambush took place near an area previously occupied by Fulani herders, who reportedly fled with their cattle before reinforcements arrived. The location is also close to a Berom native settlement.

Security forces have since launched cordon-and-search operations in nearby communities.

Clearance operations are ongoing to track the fleeing suspects and recover the stolen weapons.

Investigations into the incident continue, with authorities expected to provide further updates as more information emerges.

The attack highlights the persistent security challenges in parts of Plateau State, where communal tensions and criminal activity have periodically disrupted peace along rural roads and farming communities.

Joint security deployments, including personnel from the police and air force, form part of ongoing efforts to protect lives and maintain order in the area.

Local residents and security agencies have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements.

The Kogi State Police Command and other formations across the Middle Belt have in recent months intensified public awareness and operational responses to similar threats.

As of Tuesday afternoon, no group had claimed responsibility for the ambush. Security sources emphasized that operations to apprehend the perpetrators remain active.

The loss of Inspector Zakaria and Lance Corporal Musa has been described by security observers as a tragic reminder of the risks faced by personnel deployed on frontline duties in volatile zones.

Further details are expected as the investigation progresses and clearance operations yield results.