Plateau state Governor Caleb Mutfwang has described the recent mop-up attack by criminal elements that claimed the lives of several commuters in Mangun, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, as shocking and painful tragedy.
Governor Mutfwang said the incident is a serious setback to ongoing efforts to foster peace and promote tolerance across the state.
Speaking during a visit to the scene of the incident, Governor Mutfwang consoled the deceased families assuring that perpetrators will face the law.
The travellers were killed in Mangun, Mangu Local Government Area, after they mistakenly entered a community currently facing serious security challenges.
In a visit to the community, Governor Caleb Mutfwang said the action was particularly heartbreaking given the commendable role youths in the area had previously played in supporting security agencies to defend their communities in constant attacks by assailants.
While calling for calm the Governor urged residents to refrain from reprisals.
The Governor appealed to Plateau youths to act responsibly and resist the temptation to resort to violence while emphasizing that suspicious persons be handed over to constituted authorities for proper interrogation.
Governor Mutfwang revealed that the victims were on their way to attend a wedding ceremony Quaanpan, and extended his condolences to the families of the deceased.
While commending the swift response of security agencies and community leaders which helped limit the scale of the tragedy, the Governor warned against sensational media reports that could inflame tensions.
Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building integrated and peaceful communities, and called on all residents to unite across religious and ethnic lines to foster trust and lasting harmony on the Plateau.
Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Adesina said so far, 22 suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack, with ongoing efforts to apprehend more individuals identified by community members as active participants in the killings.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang earlier was at the Mangu General Hospital to commensurate with victims with assurance that the state government will take full responsibility for the medical bills of those receiving treatment, as well as provide support for the burial and religious rites of the dead.
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