15 Burnt To Death, Church Set Ablaze As Gunmen Invade Community

No fewer than fifteen persons have been reportedly burnt to death in a fresh attack in Bwai and Chisu communities of Mangu local government area of Plateau State.

It was gathered the incident occurred on Tuesday when residents had gone to bed with the attackers said to have stormed communities, burning some in their homes as well as razing their property.

A resident Bamshak Ishaya said the COCIN RCC Church in Bwai, which is along the Mangu-Bokkos road, was also burned downtown with other houses, vehicles and tricycles.

Residents in Chisu community heard sporadic gunshots and ran to the residence of their community leader, which was also burnt.

Eleven bodies were said to have been picked up on Tuesday morning while the search was still ongoing.

The Interim Management Committee Chairman of Mangu LGA, Mr. Markus Artu, told newsmen on the phone that the incident happened but he had no details yet.

According to him: “I am gathering the pieces, I am going on an on-the-spot assessment of the situation, we have conflicting reports coming.”

“The security agencies said there was an attempt to attack but it was repelled. They also said some other people are telling stories. I heard that they attempted to burn the Church but it was repelled, I don’t have the facts, whatever I heard is speculative as soon as I have them, I will let you know.”

The member representing Mangu South Constituency in Plateau Assembly Bala Fwangje also confirmed the incident.

He said: “Around 11 pm, we had a call that herdsmen came into Chisu and Bwai, this morning we heard that about 15 people were killed, houses destroyed, property burnt. I am yet to get the full details.”

Efforts made to reach Plateau Police spokesman, DSP Alfred Alabo were not successful.