The Department of State Services (DSS) in Plateau State has alerted the state’s police command on planned attacks on Fulani communities in Barikin Ladi and Bokkos local government areas.
The DSS disclosed this in a letter dated April 8, 2024, and addressed to the Commissioner of Police, Hassan Steve Yabanet.
The letter, a copy of which was seen by this paper, indicated that the commissioner acknowledged receipt on the same day.
The letter was signed by the State Director of Security, Plateau Command, I. V. Chikere, and titled, “Threat of renewed attacks and reprisals in Bokkos and Barikin Ladi LGAs.”
It reads: “Intelligence availed this command indicates impending attacks on Fulani communities in Bokkos, Barikin Ladi and Mangu LGAs by suspected Berom, Muwhagvul and Ron militia groups before, during and after Sallah festivities in reprisal for 2023 Christmas eve attacks in various communities of the LGAs by suspected Fulani militia where so many persons were killed and so many houses razed.”
The letter stressed the ongoing animosity between the Fulani and the natives in the LGAs, pointing out the need for robust security measures and patrols to prevent a recurrence of previous attacks.
When contacted, the spokesperson of the state police command, DSP Alabo Alfred, did not respond to calls and SMS sent to him by our correspondent.
But sources in the command confirmed that the letter was received by the police commissioner.
They said all measures are being put in place to provide adequate security to all and sundry before, during, and after Sallah festivities.
