Operation Safe Haven, a division of the Nigerian Army, has detained enraged youths accused of attacking troops assigned to uphold peace and security during the recent curfew imposed by Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
In response to the worsening security conditions in Mangu Local Government, the governor implemented a 24-hour curfew.
According to a statement released on Friday by Captain Oya James, the spokesperson for Operation Safe Haven, the youths not only violently assaulted Airforce personnel responsible for enforcing the curfew but also attacked other community members, engaging in looting and causing damage to properties along their path.
Captain James elaborates that the assault by the youths involved gunfire directed at the troops’ patrol vehicles, presenting a substantial threat to the safety of both the military personnel and the wider community.
Expressing strong condemnation for this incident, the spokesperson revealed that the security forces have successfully apprehended the perpetrators and confiscated a cache of dangerous weapons employed in the attack.
“During the subsequent operation to apprehend the attackers, the military successfully recovered a significant arsenal of weapons,” the Captain buttressed.
The seized items include one AK-47 rifle, four locally fabricated automatic rifles, one locally made mortar bomb launcher, seven empty shells of 7.62mm, one empty shell of a cartridge, one pistol magazine, 36 Boris, three rounds of 7.62mm, and seven rounds of 9 x 19mm.
The Nigerian Military has condemned the irresponsible and illegal act of violence, emphasizing that such conduct not only jeopardizes the lives of committed troops but also undermines the peace and stability of the entire community.
“We are committed to upholding the rule of law and will not tolerate any attempts to disrupt the peace and security of the region.
“We urge the peace loving people of Kerang and all citizens to refrain from engaging in acts of violence and to respect the authority of the state.
“The imposition of the 24-hour curfew was a necessary measure to safeguard the lives and property of all residents and it is essential that it be adhered to for the collective well-being of the community,” the army’s statement partly read.
The military guaranteed the residents of Plateau State that comprehensive measures would be taken to secure the safety of all law-abiding citizens. Additionally, the army appealed for the community’s collaboration in sharing information that could assist in apprehending individuals engaged in unlawful activities.
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