Lalong orders security forces to apprehend terrorists who killed 11 persons in Plateau

Plateau State Governor, Simon Bako Lalong has ordered security forces to go after terrorists who attacked Maikatako village in Bokkos Local Government Area leading to the death of 11 persons and several others injured.

Lalong in a press statement issued on Wednesday in Jos by Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr. Makut Simon Macham condemned the attack, said the killers must be fished out and brought to justice for the dastardly act.

He said the rising incidences of attacks and destruction of farm crops, livestock and other properties within the general Bokkos area is becoming worrisome and must be checked immediately.

While sympathising with the families of the victims, the Governor reiterated that his administration will not allow terrorists and bandits to take foothold in any part of the State as all security agencies have been directed to be firm and hard on any person or groups behind the criminal acts.

He again appealed to communities to always be security conscious and report any suspicious movements to the security agencies for immediate action particularly during the forthcoming yuletide season.

Meanwhile the Commander Operation Safe Haven and GOC 3rd Armoured Division Maj. Gen. Ibrahim Ali has paid an on the spot assessment to Maikatako village where he inspected the houses burnt and properties destroyed.

Having received briefing from the Sector Commander on the nature of the attack and efforts made to counter the terrorists, he commended the troops and the community vigilante for their quick intervention which prevented further losses.

Apart from ordering the deployment of more troops, the STF Commander directed the troops to pursue the fleeing terrorists and ensure that they are apprehended in line with the directive of the Governor and President.

Gen. Ali also commiserated with the families of victims and the entire community, asking them not to take the law into their hands by engaging in reprisals. He assured them that the security forces will not relent in ensuring that the people get justice.

The Chairman Bokkos Local Government, Joseph Guluwa, Commissioner for Higher Education Prof. Barnard Matur, former Chairman Bokkos LGA Hon. Luka Makut were also at the community to sympathise with them.