Two people were killed and eight others injured when gunmen attacked traders returning from Bukuru Kara Livestock Market near the State Low-Cost housing area in Bukuru, Plateau State.
The traders, identified as Fulani herders, were travelling to Bassa Local Government Area when their vehicle came under attack. The Plateau State Government condemned the incident as sad and unacceptable. In a statement, Commissioner for Information and Communications Joyce Ramnap extended condolences to the victims’ families and said security agencies had been directed to investigate.
“To further protect lives and property within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis, the Plateau State Government has directed security agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack, including the identities and motives of those responsible. The Government therefore calls on communities, traders, pastoralists and other stakeholders to remain calm and resist attempts to escalate tensions or deepen divisions. There must be no room for reprisal attacks or the taking of the law into individual hands.
“While security agencies continue their investigation, the Government is engaging relevant stakeholders to strengthen security along vulnerable routes and prevent further attacks. Citizens are encouraged to provide useful information to security authorities that could assist the investigation.
“The Plateau State Government remains committed to protecting lives and property and building a peaceful environment where all law-abiding citizens can live, work and pursue their legitimate businesses without fear. Therefore, citizens must remain calm and go about their lawful activities,” she said.
The Plateau State Police Command also condemned the attack and said personnel had been deployed to strengthen security and pursue those responsible. Police spokesperson SP Alabo Alfred said preliminary investigations indicated that the targeted vehicle was carrying traders returning from Kara Market in Bukuru, Jos.
“The Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Command, CP Ayodeji Faniyan, psc, MNIPS, MSPSP, fdc, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the Department of Investigations to take full charge of the investigation and ensure that the perpetrators are fished out and made to face the full wrath of the law.
“The Command strongly condemns this dastardly act and wishes the injured victims quick recovery. Meanwhile, Tactical Teams and Anti-robbery Teams have been mobilised to beef up security around the general area while intelligence has been stepped up to identify and arrest the perpetrators. The Command would like to use this opportunity to advise the good people of Plateau State to go about their lawful businesses and inform the Police of any suspicious activity,” he added.