Tension erupted on Tuesday during a funeral service for victims of a recent attack in Angwan Rukuba, Plateau State, after residents protested the arrest of three youths accused by security agencies of involvement in the violence.

The protest took place at ECWA Gospel Church, where mourners had gathered for a mass burial of victims killed in the March 29 attack on Gari Yawaye community that reportedly left more than 30 people dead.

Eyewitnesses said women, youths and other community members blocked access to the church, insisting the funeral would not proceed until the detained youths—whom they described as defenders of the community—were released.

Carrying placards with various inscriptions, the protesters rejected allegations linking the youths to criminal activity, arguing they were being punished despite helping to protect residents during the attack by unidentified gunmen.

One protester told journalists at the scene: “How will they come and kill us and still capture our boys, saying they are bandits? If they don’t bring those boys, this funeral will not take place.”

The standoff briefly disrupted access to the church and raised fears of further unrest in the area.

However, the situation was later brought under control after the military intervened and released the three youths, allowing the funeral service to proceed peacefully.

Security agencies have yet to issue an official statement on the arrests or the circumstances surrounding the release.