By Israel Adamu, Jos.
Fifteen persons have been killed in a fresh attack in Bwai and Chisu communities of Mangu local government area of Plateau State.
Journalists gathered that the incident occurred late at night on Tuesday when residents had gone to bed, and the attackers stormed their communities, burning some in their homes and setting their properties ablaze.
A citizen, Bamshak Ishaya, said, “Some people were killed by Fulani militias at a Community Leader’s house in an attack on Chisu village on Tuesday night at about 11:00 pm.
The COCIN RCC Church in Bwai, which is along the Mangu-Bokkos road, was also burned along with houses, vehicles, and tricycles. People in the Chisu community heard sporadic gunshots and ran to the residence of their community leader. Unfortunately, the house was set on fire, and 11 burnt bodies have been found this morning while the search is still ongoing.
“At Bwai, apart from the church, houses around the market were also burnt, and a woman who sleeps in her shop was burnt too. We are not sure if there are others who are yet to be discovered.”
The Interim Management Committee Chairman of Mangu LGA, Mr. Markus Artu, told newsmen on the phone that the incident happened, but he has no details yet.
His words, “I am gathering the pieces; I am going on an on-the-spot assessment of the situation. We have conflicting reports coming; the security agencies said there was an attempt to attack, but it was repelled. However, some other people are telling stories. I heard that they attempted to burn the church, but it was repelled. I don’t have the facts; whatever I heard is speculative. As soon as I have them, I will let you know.”
The Member representing Mangu South Constituency in the State Assembly, Mr. Bala Fwangje, also confirmed the incident, saying, “Around 11 pm, we received a call that herdsmen came into Chisu and Bwai. This morning, we heard that about 15 people were killed, houses destroyed, and property burnt. I am yet to get the full details.”
However, the State Police Command did not confirm the incident, as the Police Spokesman, DSP Alfred Alabo, did not answer his phone at the time of the report.
