Army chief launches operation to curb killings in Plateau

Taoreed Lagbaja, chief of army staff (COAS), has inaugurated a special operation to tackle insecurity in Plateau state.

Lagbaja inaugurated  “Operation Hakorin Damisa IV” on Saturday in Mangu LGA of the state.

Hakorin Damisa means “Tiger’s teeth”.

In recent weeks, suspected gunmen have attacked communities and killed residents in Mangu LGA.

On Wednesday, the army said it had deployed more manpower and equipment to address killings in the state.

Addressing the troops, Lagbaja said the special operation aims at tackling the ongoing security challenges within Mangu and its environs.

He charged troops of the special force to respond to all distress calls and work with other security agencies to end all forms of insecurity in the area.

“Gentlemen, as your 23rd COAS, I address you today and charge all of you deployed for this special operation to end the conflicts in Mangu and its environs,” Lagbaja said.

“You must work with other security agencies and because you are a people’s army, you must respond to all distress calls.

“You must also give feedback to the people at all times to win the confidence of the public.”

The COAS also tasked the troops to be professional and guided by the rules of engagement during the operation.

He warned that any soldier found wanting would not be spared.

“You must be fair and just to all; you should be soldiers for all, always check the books and operate by the books,” he added.

Lagbaja, who promised to address the challenges facing troops on war fronts, said his leadership is determined to restore peace and security to all troubled areas in the country.

He called on residents of Mangu to cooperate with the military and other security agencies by providing timely information for a prompt response.