Residents of the Angwan Rukuba community in Plateau State clashed with authorities on Tuesday during the funeral service for seven victims of recent terrorist attacks, protesting the arrest of three local youths who had reportedly been safeguarding the area. The protesters, primarily women and children, insisted that the detainees “are not bandits” and demanded their immediate release.

Tensions escalated as the demonstrators blocked access to the ECWA Gospel Church, where the mass burial was scheduled, preventing mourners from entering and disrupting the service.

The unrest follows a surge of violence in Plateau State last week. On Sunday, March 29, 2026, the Gari Ya Waye settlement within the Angwan Rukuba community of Jos North Local Government Area came under attack from heavily armed assailants. Eyewitnesses reported that over 20 gunmen stormed the area between 7:30 and 8:00 pm, opening fire indiscriminately and killing 28 people. Governor Caleb Mutfwang described the incident as a “senseless attack on law-abiding citizens.”

Survivors, many critically injured, were rushed to the Jos University Teaching Hospital for emergency treatment.

In the aftermath, Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu condemned the attacks, sending security forces to restore order and ensure that perpetrators are apprehended. He deployed Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, Umar Shehu Nadada, to Plateau State to evaluate the situation, coordinate operations, and reinforce security structures.

Authorities confirmed that additional tactical teams, Police Mobile Force units, and intelligence officers have been mobilised, working alongside other security agencies to prevent further attacks and maintain law and order in the state.

What was meant to be a solemn funeral service turned into a scene of anger, protest, and fear, underscoring the deepening insecurity and lingering tensions within the Angwan Rukuba community.