26 Persons Killed, over 80 homes razed down in Plateau in one week
No fewer than 26 persons have been killed and over 80 homes, including the residence of late Senator Gyang Dangtong, razed down in Riyom Local Government area of Plateau state in the past one week.
According to the National Caretaker Chairman of Berom Youth Movement (BYM), Rwang Dangtong, who in a press statement made available to journalists in Jos yesterday, said 'On behalf of the entire Berom youths, we condemn in strong terms the persistent and systematic attacks on our communities by gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen as this is a declaration of war.
'These consistent attacks have been on a daily basis from Thursday 2nd October and the various attacks have been launched on Lwa, Shonong, Fang, Dum Chengy, Rakweng, Diyan Rachi and Sharubutu villages of Bachi district of the LGA. Over 60 homes were burnt down last Tuesday and a few days later, another 20 homes were burnt down in Lwa village including a COCIN pastorium and church.
'Among those killed in the past few days are a pregnant woman in Lwa and an intended bride whose wedding was scheduled to take place (today) 11th of October.
'It is quite worrisome that the insurgents have been identified as the Fulani herdsmen that are living within our communities. They launch the attacks and get back to their huts unharmed and are comfortably living in safety. The heavy fire arms which the terrorists use to unleash terror and havoc on our people go to show that there is a well coordinated plan to eliminate the entire district.
'Government and all relevant stakeholders should immediately come to the rescue of our people. We are calling on members of the Special Task Force (STF) posted to restore law and order to keep vigil in the district to fish out the perpetrators of these acts.'
The statement also commended the Chairman of Riyom, Josephine Piyo for constantly mobilising security operatives who always come to the aid of the people. 'We, therefore, call on all stakeholders to join hands with government in fighting terrorist acts within our community,' it added.