- A deadly clash erupted in Plateau State between soldiers and gunmen, resulting in casualties, after the governor relaxed the curfew
- Approximately 30 gunmen were killed, over 50 arrested, and four soldiers injured in the clash, prompting swift military action
A deadly clash erupted in Plateau State’s Mangu Local Government Area, resulting in numerous casualties as soldiers confronted gunmen in the villages of Satguru and Tyop. The violence occurred shortly after Governor Caleb Mutfwang eased the 24-hour curfew, restricting it to 8 am to 4 pm due to improved security.
According to reliable sources, approximately 30 gunmen lost their lives during the confrontation, and several soldiers sustained injuries. The incident unfolded between 7 and 7:30 am along Gindri Road when the gunmen launched an attack on communities. Swiftly responding, soldiers engaged the assailants, leading to the death of 30 gunmen and the arrest of over 50 others with weapons and ammunition. Four soldiers were among the injured.
The spokesperson for Operation Safe Haven, the multi-security task force overseeing regional peace, has not responded to inquiries.
In response to the escalating violence, Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant-General Taoreed Lagbaja issued a decisive order to troops deployed in Mangu. Speaking at the Mangu Mini Stadium, Lagbaja expressed deep concern over the recent ethno-religious violence that claimed lives and destroyed property.
The COAS instructed the troops to employ strategic manoeuvres and necessary force to end the killings swiftly. He debunked allegations of soldiers being involved in recent killings in the state and emphasized the need for residents to cooperate with and support the military and other security agencies.
Addressing the troops, Lagbaja urged them to be professional, responsible, and impartial in discharging their duties. He assured the deployment of special forces from the Army Headquarters across the country to Plateau, emphasizing the seriousness of their mission.
“The Army Headquarters has mobilized special forces across the country to Plateau, and I am here to give a marching order to the troops. Their mission on the Plateau is serious,” Lagbaja declared, highlighting the commitment to addressing deployment gaps and maintaining peace and unity in the state.