Unabated Plateau Killings: The Grim Reality Despite 24-Hour Curfew

Despite the imposition of a 24-hour curfew in Mangu local government area of Plateau state, violent acts like murder and arson persist unabated. Governor Celeb Mutfwang implemented the curfew following fresh instances of murder in the area on Tuesday. However, local residents have reported that the violence didn't stop. Armed men invaded multiple communities, shooting indiscriminately at people and setting fire to houses. Among the reported buildings burnt was the Sunnah Islamiya School along Gindiri Road. A local named Suleiman Muhammad recounted how the armed men attacked with high-powered weapons and set numerous structures ablaze, including the Sunnah Islamiya school. The assailants also reportedly killed several individuals. Muhammad painted a desperate picture, stating, "They have overwhelmed the security personnel currently in Mangu. We are completely surrounded by the gunmen." The gunmen also set fire to mosques and residences in Anguwan Femawa, Anguwan Hayi, Anguwan Kuwata, and Anguwan Maijirgi, all located in Ward 2 of Mangu. No statement has been forthcoming from Captain Oya James, the spokesperson for Operation Safe Haven, a peacekeeping effort in the area.