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2 dead as herdsmen reportedly open fire on troops; army makes arrest (photos)
- Herdsmen and villagers in Plateau engaged in a clash
- While trying to restore peace in the community, two soldiers lost their lives
- The army arrested seven persons in relation to the attack
Two soldiers were reportedly killed after troops responded to a distress call in Rafiki village over clashes between villagers in Miango community and herdsmen.
In a statement by Brigadier General Texas Chukwu who is the spokesperson of the army, it was confirmed that the incident happened in Plateau state on Wednesday, March 14.
As troops responded to the distress call, it was reported that the herdsmen opened fire killing two soldiers.
Some suspects were arrested in connection with the attacks while peace was restored.
The army, however, said while conducting a search, 23 dead bodies were discovered at Mararaba Dare, while some weapons were recovered.
Read the statement below:
"Troops of 3 Division Garrison Jos Plateau State arrested 7 suspects and recovered weapons in the clash between Miango community and herdsmen at Rafiki Village on Wednesday 14 February 2018. The troops responded to distress calls to the clash reported by locals. As troops moved in to settle the dispute, the herdsmen opened fire on troops convoy. 2 soldiers paid the supreme price. 7 suspects were arrested in connection with the clashes.
"While conducting search, troops discovered 23 dead bodies at Mararaba Dare shortly before Rafiki Village and many civilians were wounded. 2 other soldiers wounded are receiving medical attention at 3 Division Military Hospital and Medical Services. They are stable.
"Weapons recovered include one Ak 47 assault rifle with 26 rounds of 7.62mm special and One locally made single barrel loaded with 15 rounds. Troops have intensified patrol within the general area to forestall further break down of law and other."
Meanwhile, Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi state warned that the incessant killings during herdsmen and farmers clashes can ignite war in Nigeria if not handled carefully.
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| 2 soldiers were killed when herdsmen opened fire on troops. Credit: Facebook, SK Usman |
"Troops of 3 Division Garrison Jos Plateau State arrested 7 suspects and recovered weapons in the clash between Miango community and herdsmen at Rafiki Village on Wednesday 14 February 2018. The troops responded to distress calls to the clash reported by locals. As troops moved in to settle the dispute, the herdsmen opened fire on troops convoy. 2 soldiers paid the supreme price. 7 suspects were arrested in connection with the clashes.
"While conducting search, troops discovered 23 dead bodies at Mararaba Dare shortly before Rafiki Village and many civilians were wounded. 2 other soldiers wounded are receiving medical attention at 3 Division Military Hospital and Medical Services. They are stable.
"Weapons recovered include one Ak 47 assault rifle with 26 rounds of 7.62mm special and One locally made single barrel loaded with 15 rounds. Troops have intensified patrol within the general area to forestall further break down of law and other."
Meanwhile, Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi state warned that the incessant killings during herdsmen and farmers clashes can ignite war in Nigeria if not handled carefully.
