Introduction

Fresh violence in Plateau State has again exposed the limitations of a newly imposed curfew, as gunmen killed a senior police officer and three civilians despite the dusk-to-dawn restriction.

What Happened

On Tuesday night, gunmen opened fire on security operatives along Gagshi Road between Barkin Ladi and Bokkos, killing one police operative. Hours later, separate attacks in Rakok (Kafi Abu) left three civilians dead. The Plateau State Government had enforced a 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew across Barkin Ladi, Bokkos and Mangu following renewed security threats. Police Public Relations Officer SP Alfred Alabo confirmed the casualties and stated investigations were underway.

  • Gunmen attacked security operatives on Operation Rainbow along Gagshi Road, killing one operative.
  • Three civilians were killed in a separate incident at Rakok (Kafi Abu) in Barkin Ladi.
  • A 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew was imposed on Barkin Ladi, Bokkos and Mangu following renewed security threats.
  • Police Public Relations Officer SP Alfred Alabo confirmed the casualties and stated investigations were underway.

Why This Matters

The latest violence underscores a growing concern that curfews alone cannot protect residents when attackers operate with apparent impunity. Critics argue the measure places undue burden on ordinary citizens while failing to deter well-coordinated assaults. The Berom Youth Moulders-Association has sharply criticised the curfew’s performance, stating it primarily limits ordinary residents while assailants operate with relative freedom. The group also highlighted that a 22-year-old father was killed during his burial, with mourners trapped in a gun battle, underscoring the curfew's inability to protect civilians. Analysts warn that without intelligence-driven operations and community safeguards, such attacks may continue to destabilize rural communities and erode public trust in security agencies.

Key Takeaways

  • A dusk-to-dawn curfew was imposed across three local government areas yet failed to prevent deadly assaults.
  • One Chief Superintendent of Police and three civilians lost their lives in separate attacks.
  • The Berom Youth Moulders-Association has condemned the curfew’s effectiveness and called for enhanced security presence along identified flashpoints.
  • Authorities are urged to intensify intelligence operations and ensure safe passage for essential community activities like funerals.
  • The group highlighted the death of a young father during his burial, with mourners trapped in gunfire, as evidence the curfew fails to safeguard civilians.

Conclusion

Fresh attacks in Plateau State reveal the urgent need for security strategies that go beyond curfews and target the root causes of violence. Residents deserve the right to live, farm, and bury their dead without fear of attack. As investigations proceed, the effectiveness of the current curfew will likely remain under intense scrutiny, and pressure is mounting on security agencies to deliver tangible protection for at-risk communities.