The violent attacks that engulfed Dong in Jos North LGA and Rafiki in Jos East have claimed the lives of 2 security personnel and 23 other civilians.

Many persons were reported to be seriously injured while a Church and many other houses were set ablaze.

The casualty figure on the civilian side included the natives and attackers who came in their hundreds shooting sporadically, burning houses and killing anyone on sight including the slain security personnel who were on ground to resist the attackers but were ambushed and their military vehicle shot at.

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters Abuja says Troops of 3rd Division Garrison, Jos Plateau State yesterday discovered 23 dead bodies at Mararaba Dare near Rafiki Village in Bassa LGA following attacks by suspected Fulani herdsmen.

A Press statement by Brigadier General Texas Chukwu, Director Army Public Relations on its website says two soldiers were also killed when Fulani herdsmen opened fire on the military convoy drafted to restore order in the area.
“Many civilians including 2 other soldiers wounded are receiving medical attention at 3 Division Military Hospital and Medical Services,” the statement says.

The statement adds that troops arrested seven suspects and recovered weapons in the operation.

Photos shared by the DHQ supposedly of those arrested were however said to be of people picked from Rafiki community to stop reprisal attacks, so as to reduce the tension and more deaths.

Meanwhile, the Plateau State Government has imposed a dusk to dawn curfew on Dong and Rafiki communities following the outbreak of violence yesterday morning.

Viewpoint will keep you updated on the stories as they unfolds.

count | 257

2 Security Personnel, 23 Other Persons Killed as Suspected Fulani Gunmen Attacked Dong/Rafiki