Court Sentences Policeman to Death for Killing UNIJOS Student

The Plateau State High Court 1 in Jos has sentenced Sergeant Ruya Auta to death for the killing of University of Jos student, Rinji Bala. The ruling was delivered on Tuesday by the Chief Justice of Plateau State, Justice David Mann.

Auta was found guilty of culpable homicide following a detailed review of the prosecution’s evidence, witness testimonies, and the circumstances surrounding the case. The court emphasized that the sentence is intended to uphold the rule of law and ensure accountability, particularly in cases involving the unlawful use of firearms by security personnel.

Rinji Bala, a 300-level student at UNIJOS, was shot dead on May 12, 2020, after being taken into custody with two friends in the Hwolshe area of Jos during the COVID-19 lockdown. Reports indicate that Bala and his friends were apprehended, searched, and beaten despite no incriminating evidence being found. After being released, Bala was shot in the back at waist level, resulting in his immediate death.

Dr. Garba Pwul (SAN), prosecuting counsel, said that although the convict claimed the shooting was an accidental discharge, evidence showed intent to shoot the victim. He noted that while Auta has a constitutional right to appeal, no appeal has been filed to date.

Reacting to the judgment, Peter Bala, father of the late student, said: “No sane person would celebrate the death of another human. The truth is the law is the law.” He added that he hopes the ruling will serve as a deterrent to negligent security personnel.

The court’s ruling has been described by stakeholders across Plateau State as a significant step toward restoring public confidence in the justice system and reinforcing citizens’ fundamental rights.

VANGUARD