A serving member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Safwan Fade, has been brutally beaten to death by hoodlums in the Pankshin Local Government Area of Plateau State. Fade, who was serving at the Federal College of Education in Pankshin, was attacked at a local stadium within the community. The Plateau State Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, confirmed the incident at the Command’s headquarters in Jos on Tuesday, revealing that two suspects have been arrested in connection with the crime.
The Tragic Incident: How It Happened
According to the police report, the incident occurred on January 22, 2025, at approximately 6:00 PM. Safwan Fade was reportedly attacked by a group of hoodlums at the Pankshin Township Stadium. The assailants beat him severely, leaving him with critical injuries. The attack was reported to the police the following morning by one Umbule Boreng Reuben, a resident of Pankshin.
Upon receiving the report, the Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, immediately directed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Pankshin to lead a team of officers to the scene. The victim was rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention, where he was initially declared stable by the attending doctor. However, due to complications arising from his injuries, Fade was later transferred to the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), where he eventually succumbed to his injuries.
Police Arrest Two Suspects
In the course of their investigation, the police identified and arrested two suspects in connection with the attack. The suspects, Samuel Dang Kat and Zatshinen Wubwerwe, are currently in police custody. The Commissioner of Police assured the public that efforts are being intensified to apprehend other fleeing suspects and bring them to justice.
“In the course of our investigation, two suspects, one Samuel Dang Kat and Zatshinen Wubwerwe, both male, have been identified and arrested in connection with the case. Efforts are being intensified with a view to apprehend the fleeing suspects and charge them to Court,” Adesina stated.
A Broader Crackdown on Crime
The arrest of the two suspects is part of a broader crackdown on crime in Plateau State. The Commissioner of Police revealed that 24 suspects were arrested for various offenses during the period under review. He commended the efforts of law-abiding citizens and the media for their support in the fight against crime, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the police and the community.
“Within the period under review, the Plateau State Police Command had recorded some operational successes. Our aggressive onslaught against men of the underworld has led to the massive arrest of criminals and the recovery of arms and ammunition. The Command is poised to serve you better. The support of the media and the publicity given to Police activities has no doubt been tremendous. The Public are better informed and educated on the good intentions of the police towards them and the need to form a strong alliance against the men of the underworld,” Adesina said.
A Call for Justice and Improved Security
The brutal killing of Safwan Fade has sparked outrage and calls for justice from the NYSC community and residents of Plateau State. Fade’s death is a tragic reminder of the security challenges facing the country, particularly the vulnerability of young people serving in remote areas. The incident has also raised concerns about the safety of corps members and the need for improved security measures to protect them during their service year.
The NYSC has yet to issue an official statement on the incident, but it is expected that the organization will work closely with the police to ensure that justice is served. The Plateau State Government has also been urged to take proactive steps to enhance security in the state and prevent similar incidents in the future.
A Life Cut Short
Safwan Fade’s untimely death has left his family, friends, and colleagues in mourning. As a corps member, Fade was contributing to the development of his host community through his service at the Federal College of Education in Pankshin. His death is not only a loss to his loved ones but also to the nation, which relies on the dedication and commitment of young people like him to drive progress and development.
Conclusion: A Call for Collective Action
The brutal murder of Safwan Fade underscores the urgent need for collective action to address the security challenges facing Nigeria. While the police have made significant strides in apprehending suspects and cracking down on crime, more needs to be done to ensure the safety and security of all citizens, particularly young people serving in vulnerable areas.
The Plateau State Police Command has assured the public that it remains committed to fighting crime and bringing perpetrators to justice. However, the fight against crime cannot be won by the police alone. It requires the active participation of all stakeholders, including the government, community leaders, and citizens. By working together, we can create a safer and more secure environment for everyone.
As the investigation into Safwan Fade’s death continues, the nation mourns the loss of a promising young life. His death serves as a stark reminder of the need to prioritize security and justice in our communities. May his soul rest in peace, and may his killers be brought to justice.
