By Godfrey Sunwar
A retired Deputy Inspector General of Police (Operations), Habila Joshak, has condemned the recent attack on travelers in Mangun District of Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, describing the act as unfortunate and avoidable.
Joshak, who is from the affected area, said the incident was a result of rising suspicion and fear among youths, but emphasized the need for proper interrogation and verification instead of rash actions. He noted that the travelers were heading to Qua’an Pan for a wedding.
“The youths must be reoriented on safety measures to avoid future reoccurrence or taking laws into their hands,” he stated while speaking to journalists.
He expressed condolences to the Government of Kaduna State, the Zazzau Emirate Council, and the families of the victims, urging government to restore the inactive police division in Mangun.
According to him, the presence of a stationary security post in the area could have helped prevent such an ugly situation, as security visibility often deters violence.
Joshak acknowledged that Mangu, Bokkos, Riyom, Barkin Ladi, and Bassa LGAs have witnessed a series of attacks, which have created an atmosphere of fear, but cautioned that residents must remain law-abiding and avoid self-help justice.
He commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang for steps taken to address the issue, especially covering medical bills of the injured and deploying a delegation to Kaduna State and families of victims.
Describing the governor’s actions as a “right step in the right direction,” Joshak applauded the peace initiative and efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.
