A violent clash between youths in the Ponglong area of Lalin district, Mikang local government council, Plateau state, has resulted in extensive damage to properties. Several homes were set ablaze, barns demolished, and livestock stolen during the altercation between Motola and Taroh youths on Saturday night.
Reports indicate casualties, with some individuals losing their lives and many others sustaining injuries of varying severity. The exact number of fatalities is yet to be confirmed, as residents are still assessing the aftermath of the conflict.
According to Hon. Daniel Kungmi, the transition chairman of the council, what initially started as a dispute between two individuals escalated rapidly as it was seized upon by irate youths and criminal elements. This escalation led to the widespread destruction of property and the theft of valuable assets, including livestock.
Authorities swiftly responded to the situation, deploying security operatives to restore law and order in the affected community. While the situation is currently under control, efforts to determine the full extent of the casualties are ongoing.
In light of these events, Hon. Daniel Kungmi has called for calm among residents, urging them to remain vigilant against potential threats posed by opportunistic individuals seeking to exploit the unrest.
A stakeholders meeting, involving key figures from the affected areas, is planned to address the underlying issues behind the clash. Additionally, the commissioner of police is expected to visit the community to assess the situation firsthand.
Despite attempts to reach the state police command for comment, there has been no response from the spokesperson, DSP Alabo Alfred, at the time of this report.
