In a series of devastating events, at least fifteen individuals have lost their lives in separate attacks that took place in the Bwai and Chisu communities of Mangu Local Government Area (LGA) in Plateau State. The incidents unfolded late Tuesday night when unsuspecting residents were asleep, and the assailants launched simultaneous assaults, showing no mercy as they killed and set houses ablaze.
According to eyewitness Bamshak Ishaya, the tragedy unfolded when some individuals sought refuge in the house of a community leader in Chisu village, only to be met by Fulani militias who mercilessly attacked and killed them around 11:00 pm on Tuesday night. The situation in Bwai was equally harrowing, as the COCIN RCC Church, along with numerous houses, vehicles, and tricycles, fell victim to the arsonists’ rampage.
Residents reported hearing gunshots, prompting them to seek shelter in the community leader’s residence. Tragically, the militiamen set the house on fire, leading to the discovery of eleven charred bodies the following morning, with search efforts still ongoing. Additionally, houses surrounding the market in Bwai were also torched, and a woman who was sleeping in her shop met a tragic fate. The full extent of the damage and loss of life is yet to be determined.
Mangu South Constituency’s representative in the State Assembly, Mr. Bala Fwangje, confirmed the incident, expressing his shock at the horrific turn of events. He stated that around 11 pm, reports came in about herdsmen attacking Chisu and Bwai, resulting in approximately 15 fatalities, widespread destruction of homes, and the burning of numerous properties. However, he emphasized that he is still awaiting comprehensive details of the incidents.
Similarly, the Interim Management Committee Chairman of Mangu LGA, Mr. Markus Artu, acknowledged the tragic events but admitted that he has limited information at present. He expressed his intent to conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the situation, acknowledging conflicting reports. While security agencies claim that there was an attempted attack that they successfully repelled, Artu acknowledged that others have relayed different stories. He noted reports of an attempted church burning that was allegedly thwarted, but stressed the need to gather accurate facts before making definitive statements.
Efforts to reach the Plateau State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Alfred Alabo, for comment were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.