Tension in Jos as Soldiers and Police Officers Clash at Busy Market

Security personnel clashed at a busy market in Jos on Monday, triggering panic among traders and passersby. Witnesses said two soldiers and two police officers were involved in the confrontation, which took place at the GSM centre in the Hamaz area along Ahmadu Bello Way.

Accounts circulating online indicate the dispute began after a soldier disagreed with a roadside phone repairer over alleged damage to his device. A Facebook user, Bello Lukman, reported that the soldier attempted to arrest the trader, prompting a police officer nearby to intervene and suggest the matter be taken to a station. Lukman claimed the soldier later summoned colleagues who arrived in a Hilux, assaulted the policeman, injured him, and left with his rifle. He added that traders sought help from other security agencies as officers in the area withdrew, noting that the tensions could have escalated sharply after the policeman reportedly cocked his weapon.

The Plateau State Police Command confirmed the incident and said order had been restored. In a statement, spokesperson Alabo Alfred noted that the clash, which occurred on December 1, was taken seriously and investigated. He said those involved had been disciplined by their respective agencies. Alfred assured residents that both institutions had addressed the misunderstanding and introduced measures to prevent a repeat.