The Plateau State Police Command has arrested a suspected fake news peddler and 21 alleged members of the notorious Sara-Suka cult syndicate in a major crackdown on crime within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis.
The Commissioner of Police, Bassey Ewah, disclosed that the arrests were part of intensified security operations aimed at curbing criminal activities and ensuring public safety, particularly during the Ramadan period.
According to the Command, the suspect behind a viral TikTok video that circulated earlier this month has been identified as 16-year-old Mohammed Shuaibu Adam. The video, posted via the handle @townboii1, allegedly contained inciting comments capable of causing unrest in the state.
Police operatives also arrested an alleged accomplice, Auwal Ilyas Abdullahi, 19, both residents of Rikkos in Jos. Authorities said the suspects confessed to the offence during interrogation and would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
In a related development, the police said 21 suspected members of the Sara-Suka cult group were apprehended during coordinated raids across various locations in Jos-Bukuru. The group has been linked to acts of violence and intimidation against residents in the area.
The Command noted that the operation followed directives issued by the Commissioner of Police to Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and tactical teams to intensify patrols and raids across the state.
All suspects are currently undergoing investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department and will be prosecuted accordingly, the police added.
CP Ewah commended officers involved in the operation for their dedication and urged them to sustain the momentum in tackling crime across the state. He also reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to maintaining peace and security, calling on the public to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities without fear.
The police further encouraged residents to report suspicious activities and make use of available emergency contact lines in case of distress.