Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has directed security agencies to investigate an attack on traders returning from the Bukuru Kara Livestock Market in Jos South Local Government Area and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The traders came under attack on Sunday, October 4, while travelling along the Bukuru Expressway near the Total Filling Station Roundabout. The vehicle was reportedly conveying about 20 passengers when gunmen opened fire on it. One person was confirmed dead, while seven others sustained gunshot injuries and were taken to a military medical facility for treatment.
Reacting to the incident, the Plateau State Government described the attack as sad and unacceptable. Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Lohya Ramnap, said security agencies had been directed to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the identities and motives of those responsible.
The Plateau State Police Command also directed its Department of Investigations to take over the case and ensure that the perpetrators are identified and arrested. Tactical and anti-robbery teams have been deployed to strengthen security in the area, while intelligence gathering has been intensified.
Governor Mutfwang called on communities, traders, pastoralists and other stakeholders to remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate tensions. The state government also urged residents to provide useful information to security authorities and warned against reprisals or taking the law into their own hands.
The government said it was engaging relevant stakeholders to strengthen security along vulnerable routes within the Jos-Bukuru axis and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across Plateau State.
