Gunmen kill NSCDC officer and kidnap businessman in Plateau State

Gunmen have killed an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and kidnapped a businessman in Pushit community, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.

PUNCH Metro learned on Tuesday that the attack happened around 9:30 pm on Monday. This occurred even with a curfew in place in parts of the area after several attacks.

Lawrence Tabitha, a community member, confirmed the incident to journalists in Jos on Tuesday. He said, “the deceased, a Deputy Superintendent of the NSCDC, was shot near his home while riding his motorcycle.”

“The gunmen had already taken a businessman who sells fuel, cement, and fertiliser. The attackers shot at the NSCDC officer after the light from his motorcycle revealed their movement as they were escaping with the businessman.”

Tabitha expressed concern about the security situation in Pushit and nearby communities. He said, “despite measures to prevent attacks, this incident raises serious worries.” He called on security agencies and the Plateau State Government “to quickly improve security in Pushit District and ensure the safe return of the kidnapped businessman.”

He added, “Residents are very anxious about the ongoing attacks in communities in the district, including Vodni, Sabon Gari, and Nchiya.” Tabitha urged residents “to stay alert and report any suspicious activities to the security agencies.”

As of the time of writing this report, the spokesperson for the Plateau State Police Command, Alabo Alfred, and his colleague from Operation Enduring Peace, Chinonso Oteh, had not responded to inquiries about the incident.