In Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, gunmen have once again targeted Tilengpat Pushit community, resulting in the death of twelve individuals.
The tragic events leading to these casualties occurred during the early hours of Friday.
Last week, the same gunmen claimed the lives of at least ten people in Mandung-Mushu and Kopnanle villages located in the Bokkos and Mangu local government areas. Several individuals were also injured, and the attackers set fire to properties, including the homes of the villagers.
Markus Argue, the Chairman of Mangu Local Government Area, confirmed the latest fatalities to NewsNow in Jos on Friday.
He mentioned, “Yes, unfortunately, our community has been attacked again, resulting in senseless fatalities. This occurred last night. Presently, I am at the impacted Pushit community.
“At the moment, we are unable to provide an exact count of the victims as we are still evaluating the situation. It’s incomprehensible why some individuals would target women and children within their homes, inflicting such violence without reason.
A community leader in Pushit, known simply as John, revealed, “We have discovered twelve deceased individuals who were brutally slain during the assault in Pushit community, with their bodies now recovered.
“The identities of the victims have not yet been disclosed pending notification of their families. Law enforcement agencies are conducting investigations to determine the motive behind these atrocious acts and capture those responsible for these heinous crimes.”
Alabo Alfred, the Spokesman for the Plateau State Police Command, stated, “Regarding the killing of 11 individuals in Mangu and the injury of three and death of two in Bokkos, the Commissioner of Police personally addressed the community.
“The Commissioner assures the people of Plateau State that all efforts are being made to eradicate this menace.”
In response to the escalating violence, women in Bokkos Local Government Area protested the ongoing attacks by gunmen in their communities.
Furthermore, Plateau State University in Bokkos Local Government Area has been forced to close its doors after an attack near the campus in Chikam community resulted in the death of a second-year student.
In a statement released on Friday, the University Registrar, Yakubu Ayuba, announced the temporary closure of the institution.
The closure, effective immediately and lasting 10 days, aims to address the psychological impact of these tragic events on students and staff, enhance security measures on campus, and minimize risks to the University community.
Examinations for the ongoing first semester are suspended and set to resume on Thursday, 2nd May, 2024.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, also the University Visitor, has strongly condemned the recent attacks in the state, emphasizing the urgent need for heightened security to protect the lives of those in affected areas.