IG Condemns Plateau Massacre, Orders Probe, Says No Peace for Attackers

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

In the wake of the appalling attacks on numerous villages in Plateau State, resulting in the tragic loss of lives in Bokkos and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode  Egbetokun, yesterday, condemned the heinous acts which he said was not only barbaric but also reprehensible and inhumane.

A statement by Headquarters said in response to the grave situation, the IG ordered immediate deployment of additional manpower and resources to Plateau State.

It said the move was aimed at assisting the local police authority and other security apparatus in effectively managing the crisis and ensuring the safety of the residents in the affected local councils and the entire state.

The IG also directed a thorough investigation of the mass murder.

“Furthermore, recognising the need for a thorough investigation, the IGP has directed the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) and his counterpart in the Department of Force Intelligence to constitute a high-powered investigative team. “This team is tasked with unraveling the circumstances surrounding the incident and bringing those responsible to justice”, it said.

It said “the police and other security agencies are deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to tackle the lingering crisis which look recurrent in the state.

“The IGP further admonishes warring groups, residents and the entire state to embrace peace, shun violence and unwarranted killings of innocent souls”.

The statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer and Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the IG extended his heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and loved ones of the deceased, who fell victim to these regrettable and preventable incidents, and to the government and good people of Plateau State. He assured the public that the perpetrators of the heinous acts will face the full force of the law and shall know no peace until justice is served.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of the citizens, and every effort will be made to restore peace and security in the affected areas”, he said.