23
civilians and two soldiers were killed by suspected Fulani herdsmen on
Wednesday after the herders opened fire on troops convoy responding to
distress calls from locals in Miango community, Bassa Local Government
Area of Plateau State.
Director
Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Texas Chukwu, in a statement
said 7 suspects were arrested and weapons were recovered after the
attack.
Below is the full statement:
"Troops
of 3 Division Garrison Jos Plateau State arrested 7 suspects and
recovered weapons in the clash between Miango community and herdsmen at
Rafiki Village on Wednesday 14 March 2018. The troops responded to
distress calls to the clash reported by locals.
"As
troops moved in to settle the dispute, the herdsmen opened fire on
troops convoy. 2 soldiers paid the supreme price. 7 suspects were
arrested in connection with the clashes.
"While
conducting search, troops discovered 23 dead bodies at Mararaba Dare
shortly before Rafiki Village and many civilians were wounded. 2 other
soldiers wounded are receiving medical attention at 3 Division Military
Hospital and Medical Services. They are stable.
"Weapons
recovered include one Ak 47 assault rifle with 26 rounds of 7.62mm
special and One locally made single barrel loaded with 15 rounds.
"Troops have intensified patrol within the general area to forestall further break down of law and other.
Governor declares curfew
Following the attack, Governor Simon Lalong called an emergency security meeting and declared dusk to dawn curfew.
The
Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Rufus Bature, in a statement said
the state had declared curfew in Bassa Local Government Area of the
state after consultation with security agencies.
He added that the curfew would be within 6pm and 6am daily.
Bature called
on the affected communities to embrace peace, assuring them that
efforts were on to unravel the immediate and remote causes of the
problem.
“Consequently, security agencies in area have been mandated to enforce the curfew.
“Law abiding citizens are advised go about their lawful businesses,’’ he said.
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