The Kaduna State Police Command has arraigned 24 suspects before a Magistrate Court at the Nigeria Defence Academy Junction in Kaduna over the mob killing of a woman accused of child theft in the Maraban Jos area of the state.
The defendants are facing charges of criminal conspiracy, inciting public disturbance, mischief, destruction of public and police property, and culpable homicide.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, Mansir Hassan, disclosed the development in a statement on Tuesday, saying the prosecution followed investigations into the June 21 incident, during which a woman was allegedly lynched after being forcibly removed from police custody by a mob.
The court adjourned the case until July 21, 2026, for further hearing and ordered that all 24 suspects remain in a correctional facility pending the outcome of the trial.
Hassan said, “The Kaduna State Police Command has arraigned twenty-four suspects before a Magistrate Court sitting at NDA Junction, Kaduna, in connection with the gruesome murder of a woman by a mob in Maraban Jos.
“The suspects face charges of criminal conspiracy, inciting public disturbance, mischief, destruction of public and police property, and culpable homicide.”
He added that the police immediately launched a full investigation after the incident, leading to the arrest and prosecution of the suspects.
The command also revealed that more than 100 additional suspects are still under investigation for their alleged involvement in the attack.
“Over 100 additional suspects remain under investigation for their alleged roles in the incident. Those found culpable will also be arraigned in court,” the statement added.
The police condemned mob violence and jungle justice, warning residents against taking the law into their own hands.
“The Command strongly condemns mob action and jungle justice. We warn that anyone who takes the law into their own hands will be arrested and prosecuted according to the law,” Hassan stated.
He quoted the Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Rabiu, as assuring residents that justice would be served while urging them to report criminal allegations through lawful channels instead of resorting to violence.
“The Command is committed to securing justice for the victim and maintaining law and order across the state. Citizens are encouraged to report criminal allegations and grievances through lawful channels rather than resorting to violence,” the police commissioner said.
The police had earlier explained that although the woman was accused of child theft by some residents, the allegation had not been substantiated.
According to the command, officers rescued her from an angry crowd and placed her in protective custody at the Maraban Jos Police Division. However, the mob later stormed the station, overpowered security personnel, dragged her out and killed her.
The attack also resulted in damage to parts of the police station and other public property.
The command reiterated its commitment to bringing everyone connected with the incident to justice and urged residents to cooperate with security agencies while rejecting all forms of mob action.