Govenor of Plateau state, Simon Bako Lalong
The Govenor of Plateau state, Simon Bako Lalong has described violent attacks on villages in the state as unwarranted and unacceptable.
Governor Lalong made his feelings known via a statement by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Makut Simon Macham.
The Governor said the level of criminality must be addressed holistically by the security agencies in collaboration with traditional and community leaders, leveraging on the structures of community policing and vigilante groups.
He, however, ordered the security forces to immediately confront the attackers threatening the lives of people in villages around Bokkos Local Government Area.
He noted that the attackers must be fished out and not allowed to go unpunished.
Last Saturday, gunmen attacked Kuliyas Village in Butura, Bokkos, killing four persons, including the village head.
The latest attacks have come after other reported isolated killings in other villages of Follo, Karara, Bokkos, and Mangor, in addition to the abduction of some students at the All Nation’s Academy, who were eventually rescued by security forces.
Meanwhile, Governor Lalong has commended security forces whom, he said, combined efforts with vigilante and hunter groups to ensure the rescue of 10 persons kidnapped by bandits in Bashar, Wase Local Government Area.
The Governor also praised the prompt action of the Police, Operation Safe Haven and community watch groups who gave the hoodlums a hot chase and ensured that all the kidnapped persons and other stolen items were recovered.
He also sympathised with the families of the victims and assured them that those behind the attacks will be made to pay for their actions.
The Governor called for vigilance among the citizens and timely passage of intelligence and information to security agencies.
Writing by Andullahi Lamino; Editing by Tony Okerafor