A wave of shock has swept through the University of Jos community following the arrest of a 23-year-old student, David Nanpon Timmap, for allegedly killing and secretly burying his coursemate, Peter Mata Mafurai, 22, inside his room at Rusau village, Jos North Local Government Area.
The suspect, a 300-level student, was taken into custody on Saturday after operatives of the Plateau State Police Command, attached to the Laranto Division, acted on a distress call around 9:30 a.m.
According to police sources, investigators who arrived at the scene uncovered a shallow grave inside Timmap’s room, where the remains of the deceased were allegedly buried. The body has since been exhumed and deposited at the Bingham University Teaching Hospital morgue for autopsy.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that the suspect is being held in custody while efforts are underway to uncover the motive behind the killing.
“We responded swiftly to the distress call and apprehended the suspect at the scene,” a police source told reporters. “The investigation is ongoing to determine what led to this tragic incident.”
Authorities have assured the public that justice will be served, calling for calm among students and residents.
The incident has left students and staff of the University of Jos reeling with disbelief. Many described both young men as quiet individuals and expressed fear over the violent nature of the crime.
“This is heartbreaking. We’ve never experienced something this gruesome within our student community,”
“Everyone is still in shock.”said a student who requested anonymity.
As police intensify their investigation, student leaders and residents of Rusau village are calling for tighter security measures around off-campus housing, where many students reside.
“We urge the authorities to look into safety around student communities,”
“This tragedy should be a wake-up call.”said a student union representative.
The Plateau State Police Command has promised a thorough investigation into the case, pledging to keep the public informed as more details emerge.
