Again, Scores Killed in Renewed Attacks in Plateau

Governor Jonah Jang

Scores of persons have again been slain following renewed attacks unleashed on Tsamiya-Mavo settlements near Kanana in Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State. 
The gale of attacks, which led to the killing, maiming and burning of houses, started on Tuesday afternoon and lasted till Wednesday morning, forcing the residents of the area to flee to safety.

An unconfirmed source stated that a counter-attack by residents of the village, who had earlier fled but went to re-mobilise to take on the attackers, was repelled by security personnel, who had just arrived the village.

The source alleged that the security personnel opened fire on the villagers, killing at least three. Aside the three killed by security personnel, the source said there were an unconfirmed number of corpses seen in the village.

Owing to the incessant attacks, residents of Wase, Lantang North and Lantang South Local Government Areas now live in fear and heightened tensions.

Also, a group, Ngwang Ishi Otarok, has alleged that the people of the Taroh in Wase are still living in danger, claiming that the attacks are very serious as dozens of persons had been killed.

In a statement signed by its secretary Pastor Nanlir Kartim Napbut the group confirmed that there were still attacks on its people in Tsamiya village.

“It is disturbing that a community that was attacked, that needed protection from the military has to suffer humiliation from the perceived protectors. The spectre of ugly incidents has put in the mind of the Taroh people that there is a high level conspiracy against them.

“Taroh nation is a disciplined and well cultured community. These series of attacks on the Taroh nation is nothing less than terrorism.

“We are calling on the international community to come to the aid of the Taroh people in Wase Local Government Area,” he said.

In addition to the deaths in Wase, about eight other persons were killed around Tanjol and Dukum villages of Riyom Local Government Area of the state.

The Special Task Force (STF) Media and Information Officer, Captain Salisu Mustapha confirmed six villagers were killed and three injured on April 15 by unknown gun men in Dukum village, while two others were ambushed and killed between Jos and Tanjol in Riyom the next day.

He said the deaths were suspected to be reprisals following the killing of six cows and three injured ones on April 14, adding that four suspects had been arrested and investigations were ongoing.