​Clergyman, Two Military Personnel Arrested Over Alleged Kidnap Plot in Jos

​JOS — The Plateau State Police Command has thwarted an alleged kidnapping plot targeting the families of prominent religious leaders in Jos, arresting a clergyman and two active-duty military personnel in connection with the incident.

​According to security reports, the operation unfolded at approximately 2:10 p.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026. Operatives led by the Commander of the Vigilance and Criminal Response Unit (VCRU) moved swiftly following credible intelligence regarding an impending abduction plot.

​Counter-insurgency and security analyst Zagazola Makama disclosed that the prime suspects include 42-year-old Rev. Hassan Yunisim Mijah, a resident of Tudun Wada in Jos North Local Government Area. Mijah allegedly conspired with Sgt. Ezra Sunday of the Nigerian Air Force and OS Usman Khalid of the Nigerian Navy.

​The intended targets of the foiled plot were the wives of Bishop Ephraim Gongden and retired Bishop Benjamin Kwashi. The two bishops reside in the Rantya area of Jos South Local Government Area, where the targets are believed to have connections.

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​The two service members involved are reportedly attached to Sector 1 of Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP), a joint security task force operating in Plateau State to maintain public order and combat criminal networks.

​Authorities confirmed that the leadership of Operation ENDURING PEACE has been formally notified of the arrest of its two personnel. During preliminary interrogations by the police, the suspects reportedly confessed to their involvement in the criminal plot.

​Meanwhile, the Plateau State Police Command stated that comprehensive investigations remain active. Law enforcement agencies are working to determine whether the suspects acted independently or as part of a broader criminal syndicate, while active efforts continue to track down and apprehend any remaining accomplices linked to the conspiracy.