Gunmen shot dead a Deputy Superintendent of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and kidnapped a businessman in Pushit community, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, on Monday night, October 19, 2026. The attack occurred around 9:30 pm despite an active dusk-to-dawn curfew imposed on parts of the area.
Attack Details and Casualty
Lawrence Tabitha, a community member, said the attackers first seized a businessman who trades in fuel, cement, and fertiliser before making their escape. As they fled with their captive, the headlight of a motorcycle ridden by the NSCDC Deputy Superintendent lit up their position, prompting the gunmen to open fire on the officer near his residence. The officer died from the gunshot wounds.
Tabitha confirmed the attack to journalists in Jos on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. The spokesperson for the Plateau NSCDC command, ASP AR Rimvyok, confirmed the incident, saying, “It is true.”
Security Concerns in Pushit District
According to Daily Trust, Tabitha said the incident has deepened anxiety among residents of Pushit and nearby communities, who have already endured repeated attacks in settlements including Vodni, Sabon Gari, and Nchiya. “The incident has heightened concerns over the security situation in Pushit and surrounding communities despite measures put in place to curb attacks,” he said.
Tabitha appealed to the Plateau State Government and security agencies to move quickly to strengthen their presence in the district and secure the release of the abducted businessman. He also urged residents “to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies.”
Related Violence in Plateau
In a separate incident, suspected gunmen attacked Mishkaham Yohanna Jatau Samkwar at his Daffo residence on the night of October 13, 2026. The shooting came just a day after the community leader's son was released from kidnappers who had abducted him earlier in October. The Community Peace Observers chairman raised alarm over near-daily killings in Bokkos, saying violence had become normalised among residents.
The latest killing underscores the persistent security challenges in Plateau State, where residents face repeated attacks despite government measures. Authorities have yet to announce arrests or provide an update on the search for the kidnapped businessman.
