There was shock as some unidentified gunmen attacked Lisham Kwahasnat community in Plateau State on Saturday night killing at least 14 people with others injured.
Lisham Kwahasnat community is situated between Mangu and Bokkos local government area councils of the state.
Report had it that following the killing of the victims, the villagers went after the gunmen that attacked the village.
In the fracas that ensued, several houses and other properties were said to have been destroyed in different communities along the axis on Sunday.
When contacted on Sunday, DSP Alabo Alfred, Police Public Relations Officer, Plateau State Command, said he would confirm the incident and update journalists on the development.
Captain Oya James, Spokesman for the Military Taskforce in the state, confirmed the killings by the gunmen. Condemning the renewed violence in the area, he said more troops had been deployed to the areas to forestall breakdown of law and order.
James said, “We were on our way to Mangu to prepare for an event tomorrow (Monday) when we were told that there was little unrest in Bokkos and we had to move to Bokkos. We have been there since morning till now.
“What happened was that some gunmen went to a village between Mangu and Bokkos and killed 14 persons. The villagers were also attacking herders thinking possibly that they were the ones responsible for the killings. So, we have been here trying to stop them.
“While we are in a particular location, you will hear that gunmen have started attacking another village and our troops will rush to the affected village.
“That is what we have been doing since morning till this Sunday afternoon but the situation has been brought under control because our troops are on the ground and more troops are on their way to ensure that no further breakdown of law and other happens.”
In the meantime, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, on Sunday in a statement issued by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, urged the residents to embrace peace in the face of the current challenges.
The statement read that “I extend heartfelt wishes as we collectively commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. Let us recall that God’s love for mankind led to the redemption through His son. This Christmas, let’s rekindle our love for humanity by dedicating our time and energy to enriching the lives of others.
“May we embody values of love, charity and selflessness, contributing to a more united, peaceful and prosperous Plateau.”
Acknowledging the challenges besetting the state such as insecurity and harsh economy, Governor Mutfwang reassured the people of his administration’s commitment to addressing the challenges.
“As we celebrate, let’s hold onto hope, knowing that God in His grace, will guide us through. I urge all citizens to conduct themselves peacefully, contributing to the creation of a harmonious environment for lawful activities,” the statement read.
Comments