Plateau Court Sentences Policeman To Death For 2020 Killing Of University Student Rinji Bala

Plateau State Chief Justice David Mann has sentenced Sgt. Ruya Auta to death for the 2020 killing of University of Jos student Rinji Bala, bringing a long-awaited legal case to a close.

The judgment, delivered Tuesday at Plateau State High Court 1 in Jos, imposed a sentence of hanging or lethal injection on Auta, who was found guilty of culpable homicide. The ruling followed a thorough review of evidence, witness testimonies, and the circumstances surrounding Bala’s death.

The court emphasized that the sentence is meant to uphold the rule of law and reinforce accountability, particularly in cases involving unlawful use of firearms by security personnel. Observers in Plateau State have hailed the verdict as a critical step toward restoring public trust in the justice system.

According to reports, Rinji Bala, a 300-level student, was shot dead on May 12, 2020, after being taken into custody with two friends near the Hwolshe area of Jos during the COVID-19 lockdown. Despite no incriminating evidence being found, Bala and his friends were beaten and released. As they ran, Bala was shot in the back, leading to his immediate death.

Dr. Garba Pwul (SAN), prosecuting counsel, said justice had been served. “The judgment was actually expected as the convict didn’t deny the offence, he said it was accidental discharge. The prosecution showed the convict had intent to shoot the victim, who was shot in the back on his waist,” he stated. Pwul added that Auta has the constitutional right to appeal, but no notice had been received.

Reacting to the verdict, Bala’s father, Peter Bala, said while no one celebrates another’s death, “the law is the law.” He expressed hope that the ruling would deter negligent actions by security personnel in the future.

The judgment underscores the importance of upholding citizens’ rights and sending a clear message against unlawful acts by law enforcement officers.