Twelve individuals suspected of attempting to incite unrest have been arrested by operatives of the Plateau State Police Command during a swift security response in Jos.

The arrests were made on Friday shortly after Jumat prayers in the Zololo area, where the suspects were allegedly planning to cause a disturbance.

Police authorities said the suspects were intercepted before they could execute their alleged plans.

Plateau State Commissioner of Police, Bassey Ewah, confirmed the development, explaining that officers were already positioned in anticipation of possible unrest. He said the suspects, reportedly armed with sticks, were attempting to move toward the Nasarawa axis when they were apprehended.

Ewah stated that the individuals would be prosecuted in line with the law, adding that security agencies would not tolerate any actions capable of destabilising the state. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to maintaining order and ensuring that offenders face legal consequences.

The arrests form part of broader security measures intensified across Plateau State following recent tensions. Ewah noted that the measures were strengthened after a visit by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which led to increased deployment of security personnel in the state.

According to the police commissioner, additional personnel, including four mobile police units and more than 300 officers, have been deployed to bolster security operations. He also confirmed that other security agencies are working alongside the police in coordinated patrols across key areas.

The joint patrols, he explained, are aimed at responding promptly to any emerging threats and preventing breakdowns in law and order. Security operatives are actively monitoring various parts of the state to ensure rapid response to incidents.

Ewah further warned that while the Jumat prayers in the area remained peaceful, there are individuals he described as “merchants of conflict” attempting to incite violence. He assured residents that security agencies are fully prepared to counter such threats and maintain stability.

He also emphasised strict enforcement of existing restrictions, including a curfew imposed at 3 p.m., as well as the ban on commercial motorcycles and restrictions on tricycles, noting that these measures are being actively enforced by security personnel.

The police commissioner commended the Plateau State Government for its cooperation and support, expressing optimism that continued collaboration among security agencies would help sustain peace in Jos and surrounding areas.

Residents have been urged to remain law-abiding and support security efforts as authorities work to restore and maintain stability in the state.