Plateau Attack: Military Rejects Accusations of Complicity in Jos North Killings
The Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation ENDURING PEACE has dismissed as false and misleading a viral comment by a youth leader from Angwan Rukuba Community, alleging that troops provided cover for perpetrators of the recent Palm Sunday attack in Jos North Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on March 31, the military described the allegation as unfounded and capable of undermining ongoing security efforts, particularly at a time when the community is grappling with the aftermath of the attack.
The incident, which occurred in Angwan Rukuba, claimed the lives of several innocent residents. According to the JTF, troops responded promptly after receiving a distress call, despite the location being distant from their initial deployment. Upon arrival, security personnel reportedly found that the attackers had already fled the scene.
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The statement clarified that four gun trucks were immediately dispatched to the affected area, and troops acted professionally to prevent further escalation of violence. Their response, it added, helped avert what could have degenerated into prolonged bloodshed. Eyewitnesses and other security agencies were cited as confirming the conduct and timely intervention of the troops.
“The allegation that troops provided cover for the attackers is entirely false,” the statement said, noting that a preliminary investigation had already discredited the claim.
The military further warned that such statements could demoralize personnel and strain relations between security forces and host communities. It urged members of the public to disregard the viral comment and instead support ongoing efforts to restore peace.
Residents were also encouraged to remain calm, law-abiding, and to provide credible intelligence to security agencies to aid in tracking down those responsible for the attack.
The JTF assured that coordinated efforts with other security agencies are underway to identify and apprehend the perpetrators, reiterating its commitment to maintaining peace and dealing decisively with criminal elements across Plateau State.
The statement was signed by Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, Media Information Officer of Operation ENDURING PEACE.
By PRNigeria
