Gunfire Erupts In Jos As Civil Defence Officers Clash With Traders During Vehicle Seizure Operation

Panic erupted in Jos on Saturday when operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), working with the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB), opened fire during a raid at the S.O Plaza shopping complex.

According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred during an operation to impound a heavy-duty vehicle allegedly in violation of restrictions on large trucks entering the city.

The operation, however, turned violent, leading to gunfire and the beating of a young worker at the plaza.

The confrontation escalated as traders and residents protested the destruction and violence allegedly carried out by the officers. A circulating video contradicts the NSCDC’s claim, showing that the targeted vehicle was parked within the premises of the plaza and not obstructing traffic.

Solomon Okeke, the owner of S.O Plaza, condemned the operation, describing it as reckless and damaging. He alleged that a similar incident occurred in August of the previous year when JMDB officials shot six tires of a parked truck inside the same premises, causing substantial financial loss.

Okeke further claimed that during the recent raid, officers confiscated a truck loaded with goods, beat up a 19-year-old staff member, tore his clothes, and have not accounted for his whereabouts.

Residents of Bukuru have called on Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, to intervene and rein in the JMDB officers, accusing them of excessive force and property destruction.

Efforts to get a response from JMDB General Manager, Architect Hart Bankat, were unsuccessful at the time of reporting, as he did not respond to inquiries.