Police Recover Body of Kidnapped Man from Mining Pond in Jos South

The Plateau State Police Command has confirmed the recovery of the decomposed body of Mr. Cyril Nilanda, a man who was earlier reported kidnapped on September 30, 2025. His body was discovered in a mining pond located in Farin Lamba community, under Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The grim discovery was first reported by security analyst Zagazola Makama via a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday. According to Makama, the body was found floating in the pond around 4 p.m., after residents in the area noticed a suspicious object in the water and alerted security authorities.

Following the tip-off, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Kaduna Vom Division promptly led a team of officers to the site. Upon arrival, the team confirmed that the remains were indeed those of Mr. Nilanda, a resident of NITR Quarters, Vom, who had been missing for nearly a month.

Reports indicate that Nilanda’s abduction occurred late in September when he was forcefully taken from his residence by unidentified assailants. Despite efforts by family members and local authorities to secure his release, no progress had been made until his body was discovered this week.

Police sources revealed that the remains, already in a state of decomposition, were prepared for evacuation and would undergo forensic examination to assist investigators in determining the cause of death and identifying those behind the crime.

In a statement shared by the Plateau State Police Command, officers assured the public that intensive investigations are ongoing to trace and apprehend the perpetrators responsible for both the kidnapping and murder. The command also urged residents to remain calm, promising that justice will be pursued to its conclusion.

The discovery has since sparked renewed fear and outrage within the Jos South community, where residents say cases of kidnapping, assault, and killings have been on the rise in recent months. Community members expressed frustration over the increasing insecurity and called for stronger government intervention to protect lives and property.

Security experts have also pointed to the growing danger of abandoned mining ponds across Plateau State, many of which have become hideouts or dumping sites for criminal activities. They are urging both the state government and security agencies to secure such areas and increase surveillance to deter future crimes.

Meanwhile, sympathizers have continued to troop to the NITR Quarters to console the family of the late Mr. Nilanda, describing him as a peaceful and hardworking man whose life was cut short in a tragic and senseless manner.