A recent violent clash between soldiers and gunmen in Plateau State’s Mangu Local Government Area has resulted in the tragic loss of at least thirty lives.
The incident occurred on Saturday morning, unfolding in two villages, Satguru and Tyop.
Disturbing reports indicate that approximately 30 gunmen lost their lives in the intense gun battle, with several soldiers sustaining injuries.
Attack and Response:
According to an anonymous security operative who disclosed details to Daily Trust, the confrontation occurred between 7:00 am and 7:30 am, as a significant number of gunmen launched an attack on various communities along Gindri road.
The soldiers, promptly alerted, responded swiftly to the unfolding crisis.
Casualties and Arrests:
During the confrontation, about 30 gunmen were reportedly killed, while more than 50 were arrested, apprehended with weapons and ammunition.
Regrettably, four soldiers were also injured in the exchange.
The gravity of the situation is underscored by the anonymous sources quoted by various news platforms, emphasizing the fear still lingering among the local population due to the bloody events.
Official Response:
Surprisingly, the spokesperson of Operation Safe Haven, a multi-security task force responsible for maintaining peace in the region, has not yet responded to inquiries made by journalists regarding the incident.
The lack of official communication raises concerns about the transparency and information flow in the aftermath of such a significant security incident.
Context and Timing:
The recent attack in Plateau State follows closely after Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s decision to ease the 24-hour curfew imposed on Mangu.
The governor had justified the decision based on an improvement in the security situation, with the modified curfew now in effect from 8 am to 4 pm.
However, the timing of the fresh clash raises questions about the sustainability of the reported security improvements and the effectiveness of the measures taken.
In conclusion, the violent clash underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Plateau State in maintaining peace and security.
The loss of lives and injuries in this incident highlight the urgent need for comprehensive and sustained efforts to address the root causes of violence in the region.