Plateau: Army arrests irate youth over mayhem in Kerang Mangu

The Nigerian Army said it has arrested the youth who caused mayhem and destroyed properties in the Kerang Mangu area of Plateau State.

The spokesperson of Operation SAFE HAVEN, Oya James, confirmed this in a statement while strongly condemning the violent attack by youth in Kerang communities.

James said not only did the community destroy and loot properties, but they also attacked Airforce Personnel enforcing the 24-hour curfew in Kerang Mangu.

“We have successfully apprehended the perpetrators and seized a cache of dangerous weapons used in the attack,” James said.

“In a shocking act of aggression, the youth of Kerang Mangu launched an assault on our troops deployed to maintain peace and security during the curfew.

“This attack, which included firing at the troops’ patrol vehicles, posed a significant threat to the safety of both the military personnel and the community at large.

“During the subsequent operation to apprehend the attackers, the military successfully recovered a significant arsenal of weapons.”

According to James, the seized items include one AK-47 rifle, four locally fabricated automatic rifles, one locally made mortar bomb launcher and seven empty shells of 7.62mm.

Other seized items include one empty shell of a cartridge, one pistol magazine, 36 Boris, three rounds of 7.62mm, and seven rounds of 9 x 19mm.

The Military also denounced this reckless and unlawful act of violence in the strongest possible terms.

It said such behavior not only endangers the lives of the dedicated troops but also undermines the peace and stability of the entire community.

James said the Army is committed to upholding the rule of law and will not tolerate any attempts to disrupt the peace and security of the region.

He further urged 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 spokesperson of Operation SAFE HAVEN stressed that the imposition of the 24-hour curfew was a necessary measure to safeguard the lives and property of all residents of Plateau State and it is essential that it be adhered to for the collective well-being of the community.

The military has also assured the people of Plateau State that every effort will be made to ensure the safety and security of all law-abiding citizens.

“We call for the cooperation of the community in providing information that may lead to the apprehension of any individuals involved in unlawful activities,” James said.

“We remain committed to working in partnership with the people of Plateau State to foster a peaceful and secure environment for all.”