Plateau police engage traditional leaders to de-escalate tensions in Jos North LGA after Murder of 4 by angry protesters
By: Zagazola Makama
The Plateau State Police Command says it has intensified security patrols and engaged local leaders in Jos North Local Government Area following fears of reprisal attacks after four persons were killed by youths in a protest over an earlier attack that claimed seven lives in Dorowa Babuje, Barkin Ladi LGA.
Youths suspected to be local indigenes mounted a road blockade and intercepted a passenger Opel Vectra conveying civilians. Four persons were reportedly selected and killed on the spot, while a fifth later died from injuries. Two of the victims were identified as Hausa indigenes of Jos North, heightening tension in parts of Jos metropolis, including Terminus and Gangare areas.
The retaliatory attack prompted swift deployments of troops of Operation Safe Heaven in flashpoints across Barkin Ladi and adjoining districts. Joint patrols and stop-and-search operations have also been intensified along major roads.
According to a police sources, unusual apprehension later build up among residents which prompted the Command to embark on a visibility and consultative patrol to assure the public of their safety.
The Commissioner of Police (COMPOL), Plateau State Police Command, visited key black spots across Jos North and held consultations with stakeholders, including the palace of Ujah Anaguta, Chairman of the Jos North Traditional Rulers Council. The police assured the royal father of their commitment to maintaining law and order and urged him to ensure stability within his domain.
COMPOL also engaged leadership of the Jos Central Mosque, the Executive Chairman of Jos North LGA, and other community leaders to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
Meanwhile, major markets in Jos, including Terminus Market, remained open and residents continued with lawful business activities. Strategic deployment of personnel has been maintained, and monitoring of the situation continues, the police sources added.
Security sources said the patrol and consultations were aimed at de-escalating tensions after Berom youths reportedly killed four people in Jos North while protesting the killing of seven residents in Dorowa Babuje by suspected bandits.
