By Golok Nanmwa, Jos
Gunmen again have killed five persons in some communities of Bokkos Local Government Council of Plateau state.
A statement by the Bokkos Cultural Development Council and jointly signed by Barr. Farmasum Fuddang the Chairman and Amb. Duwam Bosco, Secretary respectively expressed deep sadness over the killing which occurred on Monday.
According to the statement, “this tragic incident comes on the heels of a week marked by bloody attacks, during which we buried over ten members of our community: five in Wumat on October 7, four in Kuba on October 10, one in Maikatako on October 11, and another on October 12.”
The group also alleged that, “additionally, we have endured numerous assaults in the previous month, including six fatalities in Daffo on September 3, two in Tarangol on the same day, five in Mbar on September 16 and two in Kop Mandarken on September 27.”
They added that despite credible warnings by a reputable media outlet on October 12, terrorists launched a brutal attack on the village of Rafut in the Kwatas District shortly after 7pm on October 14.
“Four young men, who were out guarding their family’s home, were tragically ambushed as they stood watch.
“The attackers thereafter stormed the compound, killing an elderly man, bringing the total fatalities to five.
“Just a day prior, another young man was attacked while riding his motorcycle near Maikatako, further highlighting the escalating violence in our region.
“We commend the swift action taken by the military, which resulted in the rescue of Yelwa Sunday Mashat, who is currently recovering from severe injuries sustained during the attack. We also acknowledge the apprehension of several suspects and large cattle herds they drove into the road to block the victim.
“However, it is with deep regret that we observe the attack on Rafut which occurred despite advance warnings clearly identifying these areas as at risk.
“This situation underscores our urgent calls for the establishment of a Civilian Joint Task Force. The absence of such a group has deterred community members from participating in neighborhood watch initiatives, particularly given past instances where individuals defending their communities were arrested or shot by military personnel.
“A Joint Task Force would facilitate better intelligence sharing, eliminate misunderstandings, and significantly reduce response times during future invasions. While we recognize the military’s vital role in safeguarding lives and property, we understand the manpower and logistical challenges faced by troops. Therefore, we reiterate our request for assistance, as local residents possess invaluable knowledge of the terrain and can better support military efforts:, the statement added.