Gunmen and soldiers clash, leaving scores dead in Plateau State

A deadly clash erupted between soldiers and gunmen in two villages of Mangu Local Government Area in Plateau State on Saturday morning.

The violent confrontation resulted in a significant loss of life, with reports indicating that no fewer than 30 gunmen were killed, and some soldiers sustained injuries during the intense battle.

The clash unfolded just hours after Governor Caleb Mutfwang had relaxed the 24-hour curfew that had been imposed on the area.

According to a security operative, the incident transpired between 7 to 7:30 am when the gunmen, numbering in their dozens, launched an attack on communities along Gindri road.

Swiftly responding to the alert, soldiers engaged the attackers in a fierce confrontation, leading to the reported casualties.

Approximately 30 gunmen were neutralized, and over 50 others were apprehended with a cache of weapons and ammunition.

Unfortunately, four soldiers were injured in the exchange.

Despite the governor’s decision to ease the curfew, tensions in the area persist.

A source from the region, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the incident, emphasizing that fear still looms large among the populace.

This violent clash follows a recent incident where gunmen defied the 24-hour curfew imposed by the Plateau State government, attacking Kwahaslalek and surrounding communities.

The assailants reportedly killed at least 25 people and set properties ablaze.

Hosea Ibrahim, a resident, highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that the skirmish in Sabon Gari and Mangu on Tuesday served as a decoy, paving the way for the subsequent attack on Kwahaslalek.

The affected communities, particularly those in Mangu Halle District and the borders of Mangu and Barkin Ladi local government areas, now bear the somber mark of desolation.

As the affected communities grapple with the aftermath of this deadly clash, concerns about the region’s security intensify.

The incident underscores the challenges faced by residents and authorities in restoring peace to Plateau State amid recurring acts of violence.

The need for a comprehensive and sustainable approach to address the root causes of these conflicts becomes increasingly apparent, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected population.

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