The Gombe State Police Command has confirmed the death of five persons and injuries to five others after a truck lost control and rammed into a crowd of Christian worshippers celebrating Easter in Billiri town, Billiri Local Government Area, early Monday morning.
The tragic incident occurred around 6:30 am along the Gombe-Yola Road. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, the crash involved a trailer truck transporting grains from Adamawa State to Gombe.
“A trailer truck lost control due to brake failure while approaching a gathering of Christian faithful who were on procession to celebrate the Easter season in Billiri town,” DSP Abdullahi said. “The vehicle veered off the road and tragically ran into the crowd, including some Muslim residents who were observing from the roadside.”
He said that five people—two males and three females—were confirmed dead by medical personnel, while eight others were taken to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, and the General Hospital in Billiri, where they are currently receiving treatment.
The police spokesperson noted that operatives from the Billiri Division responded promptly, rescuing the injured and transporting them to the nearest medical facilities.
However, in the aftermath of the incident, tensions flared in the community. Aggrieved youths reportedly set the truck ablaze, looted shops, and marched to the Billiri Divisional Police Headquarters, where they pelted officers with stones and other dangerous objects.
“The Divisional Police Officer and several personnel sustained varying degrees of injuries during the unrest,” DSP Abdullahi confirmed. “However, normalcy has since been restored.”
He condemned the violence and called on residents to remain calm and law-abiding. “The command condemns the act of lawlessness and urges residents to allow the law to take its course. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.”
Commissioner of Police, CP Bello Yahaya, has extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He also assured the public that adequate security measures have been put in place to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
“Members of the public are urged to remain law-abiding, avoid taking the law into their hands, and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station,” he added.
Meanwhile, Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident. In a statement, he directed relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and bring anyone found culpable to justice.
“We will ensure that those responsible are held accountable,” the governor said. “Decisive action will be taken against anyone found wanting in this incident.”