Plateau Government declares Curfew following Herdsmen Attack that left 2 Soldiers, 2 Cops & 2 Civilians Dead

The Plateau state government has declared a dusk to dawn curfew in Bassa Local Government Area of the state following a battle between suspected Fulani herdsmen and security operatives at Dung Kasa, Rafiki and Dutse Kura communities in the local government.

Punch, quoting an eyewitness, reports that two soldiers, two police officers and two civilians died in the attack that took place on Wednesday morning.

A statement by the Nigerian Army said that 23 dead bodies were also discovered at Mararaba Dare shortly before Rafiki Village with many civilians were wounded. The statement also added that two other soldiers wounded are receiving medical attention at 3 Division Military Hospital and Medical Services and that 7 suspects have been arrested.

“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…. 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,” the statement by Army spokesperson Brig.-Gen. Texas Chukwu said.

Following the incident, Punch reports, Governor Simon Lalong called an emergency security meeting from where a decision to impose a 6PM to 6AM curfew was taken.

The Secretary to the State Government Rufus Bature, in a statement after the meeting, said: “Consequently, security agencies in area have been mandated to enforce the curfew. Law abiding citizens are advised go about their lawful businesses.