Gunmen defy curfew, inflict deadly damage on civil defence officer in Plateau

A Deputy Superintendent of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has been slain, whereas a businessman was kidnapped by gunmen who attacked Pushit group in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The incident reportedly occurred at about 9:30 p.m. on Monday, October 19, amid a dusk-to-dawn curfew lately imposed in Mangu and two different native authorities areas following repeated assaults.

A group member, Lawrence Tabitha, instructed journalists that the officer was f@tally shot close to his residence whereas driving his motorbike.

According to him, the gunmen had earlier kidnapped a businessman who offers in gasoline, cement and fertiliser.

While fleeing with their sufferer, the attackers reportedly encountered NSCDC officer Distu Garba Audu they usually opened fireplace on the officer at shut vary.

“The attackers opened fire on the NSCDC officer after the headlight of his motorcycle exposed their movement as they were fleeing the area with the abducted businessman,” he mentioned.

He added that the incident had heightened issues over the safety state of affairs in Pushit and neighbouring communities, regardless of measures launched by the authorities to curb the assaults.

Tabitha urged safety businesses and the Plateau State Government to strengthen safety in Pushit District and make sure the secure launch of the kidnapped businessman.

“Residents are disturbed that the curfew imposed by the state government is not yielding the expected results. We are really worried about these repeated attacks in Pushit District, including Vodni, Sabon Gari and Nchiya,” he mentioned.

Another resident, who recognized himself as Nanpam, mentioned he narrowly escaped being hit by a stray bullet whereas popping out of his home.

“I ran into the bush when I heard gunshots, but when I came out, I saw the civil defence officer lying in a pool of his own blood,” he mentioned.

Nanpam known as for elevated vigilance, lamenting that the gunmen appeared undeterred by the curfew.

“This calls for vigilance because these gunmen have no respect for the curfew, as they operate with reckless abandon,” he added.