In a horrifying incident that unfolded on Tuesday night,
Chisu village in Mangu Local Government of
Plateau State fell victim to a
suspected terrorist attack, leaving devastation and tragedy in its wake. The
assailants, believed to be terrorists, launched a violent assault on the
village, resulting in the tragic deaths of 11 individuals who were mercilessly
burnt alive.
The chilling events began when the tranquility of the
community was shattered by the sound of sporadic gunshots reverberating through
the night around 11 pm. Gripped by fear and sensing imminent danger, the
terrified villagers sought refuge in a house within the village, hoping to find
safety within its walls. Little did they know that their pursuit of shelter
would ultimately seal their grim fate.
The attackers, undeterred by the villagers’ attempt to find
sanctuary, relentlessly pursued them to the house they sought refuge in. With
malevolence in their hearts, the assailants callously set the dwelling ablaze,
trapping the innocent victims inside. As the flames engulfed the structure, the
helpless cries of those trapped within were silenced forever, their lives
tragically cut short.
Among the few who managed to escape the ferocious assault
was Michael Bulus, a resident of the Chisu community. Bulus, who witnessed the
horrifying events unfold before his eyes, later confirmed the chilling death
toll to the press. Speaking to a correspondent in Jos on Wednesday, Bulus
recounted the grim fate of the villagers, expressing his deep sorrow and shock
at the senseless loss of life.
In their rampage of destruction, the terrorists did not
limit themselves to targeting innocent lives alone. They showed no mercy as
they set fire to a nearby church situated along the Mangu-Bokkos Road, reducing
it to ashes. This wanton act of desecration further exacerbated the profound
anguish and sorrow that had enveloped the community. The terrorists, not
content with their heinous acts, also torched numerous houses, vehicles, and
tricycles, leaving a trail of devastation and loss in their wake.
News of the horrific incident quickly reached the Plateau
State Police Command, prompting a swift response from law enforcement authorities.
However, when attempts were made to contact the police spokesperson, Alabo
Alfred, regarding the incident, he did not respond, leaving many questions
unanswered. Nonetheless, sources within the command headquarters in Jos
confirmed that additional security personnel had been deployed to the affected
community in response to the distressing reports.
As the community of Chisu grapples with the aftermath of
this tragic event, the scars of terror and loss will remain etched in their
hearts and minds. The heinous attack serves as a stark reminder of the
pervasive threat posed by terrorism and the urgent need for heightened security
measures to protect innocent lives and preserve peace within the region.
