A violent clash between irate youths in the Ponglong area of Lalin district, Mikang local government council, Plateau state, has resulted in several homes being razed, barns destroyed, and cattle rustled.
The clash, involving Motola and Taroh youths, erupted on Saturday night in Mikang local government, claiming lives and leaving many others with various degrees of injuries.
While the exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed, residents are grappling with the aftermath of the bloody confrontation.
According to the transition chairman of the council, Hon. Daniel Kungmi, what initially began as a dispute between two individuals quickly escalated as irate youths and criminals seized the opportunity to wreak havoc.
Kungmi stated, “Within a short while, the situation degenerated leading to the burning down of houses and barns. Several criminal elements took advantage of the unfortunate situation and rustled cattle as well as other valuables.”
Security operatives were promptly alerted, and they swiftly moved to the affected community to restore law and order. Kungmi emphasized the need for calm among residents and assured them that efforts are underway to address the situation.
“I just returned from the affected community, and the situation is under control, but for now, we cannot ascertain the number of persons killed in the clash,” Kungmi remarked. He also mentioned plans for a critical stakeholders meeting with the transition committee chairman of Langtang North local government council to address the conflict.
Urging residents to remain tolerant and vigilant against malicious elements, Kungmi emphasized the importance of safeguarding innocent lives amid the unrest.
The commissioner of police in the state is expected to visit the affected community on Sunday to assess the situation firsthand, although the spokesperson of the state police command, DSP Alabo Alfred, is yet to respond to inquiries regarding the incident.