The governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang on Thursday confirmed the killing of seven miners by some suspected terrorists in Kuru community, Jos South Local Government Area.
Mutfwang while expressing sorrow over the incident said several other residents were also injured during the attack which occurred on Wednesday night.
In a statement issued by Gyang Bere, the governor’s director of press and public affairs, said the terrorists launched the attack at a time when efforts are being intensified to restore lasting peace in Plateau State.
Describing the attack as barbaric, senseless, and most unfortunate, the governor condemned other recent attacks by terrorists in Kuru, Gyel, and Buhum communities in Chugwi Village of Vwang District.
He assured the people of the state of his administration’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of every resident.
“The governor strongly condemned the recent coordinated attacks in Kuru, Gyel, and Buhum communities in Chugwi Village of Vwang District, reaffirming his administration’s firm commitment to safeguarding lives and property in every part of Plateau State.
“He lamented the tragic loss of innocent lives, stressing that such acts of terror will not deter the government’s resolve to decisively confront banditry, terrorism, and all forms of criminality,” Bere said.
Also commending security agencies and their personnel for their resilience, Mutfwang said there is a need for them to improve intelligence-led operations to ensure the swift apprehension and prosecution of criminals.
In addition, the governor urged residents to collaborate with the agencies and their personnel to ensure proactive measures to safeguard the state.
Commiserating with the families of the deceased, the governor also called on the leadership of Operation Rainbow to strengthen intelligence gathering and early-warning mechanisms to enable prompt and effective security responses.