Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau has commended security agencies for rescuing 10 persons kidnapped by bandits in Bashar, Wase local government area.

In a statement by his spokesperson, Makut Macham, on Monday in Jos, Mr Lalong said the agencies collaborated with the vigilante and hunter groups for the operation’s success.

He said the prompt action of the agencies ensured that all the kidnapped persons and other stolen items were recovered.

Meanwhile, Mr Lalong directed security forces to immediately confront criminals threatening lives in villages around Bokkos local government, describing the recent spate of attacks as unacceptable.

“On 8th October 2022, gunmen attacked Kuliyas Village in Butura, Bokkos, killing four persons, including the village head,” the Plateau governor stated. “This is coming after other reported isolated killings in other villages of Follo, Karara, Bokkos, and Mangor, as well as the kidnap of some students at All Nation’s Academy who were eventually rescued by security forces.”

Mr Lalong urged security agents to address the rising crime rate in collaboration with traditional rulers and community leaders in the state through the structures of community policing and vigilante groups.

He asked the residents to be vigilant and provide timely and useful information to security operatives to prevent further attacks.

(NAN)