Egbetokun deploys counter-terrorism squad to troubled Plateau communities

Kayode Egbetokun, the inspector-general of police (IGP), has directed a swift dispatch of tactical police units to restive communities in Plateau state.

On April 4, the Bokkos Cultural Development Council (BCDC) said suspected bandits killed over 10 people, with the death toll rising to 52.

The incident occurred a week after armed men struck the Ruwi community in Bokkos LGA, targeting mourners gathered at the residence of a deceased.

Muyiwa Adejobi, force spokesperson, quoted  Egbetokun as saying the deployment is part of urgent efforts to curb violence and restore peace to the region.

He said Kwazhi Yakubu, deputy inspector-general of police in charge of the department of operations, will oversee the intervention with tactical teams and surveillance drones.

Adejobi added that the assets will be carefully positioned to carry out targeted missions focused on stopping frequent assaults that have claimed several lives.

“Yakubu (DIG DOPs) will lead and coordinate this critical intervention with significant reinforcements, including additional units of highly trained tactical personnel and state-of-the-art drones for enhanced surveillance,” the statement reads.

“The deployment also includes Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs), units of the Police Mobile Force, helicopters, and specialized platoons from the Special Intervention Squad (SIS).

“The recent escalation of violence began on March 28, 2025, when some armed assailants launched a brutal attack in Bokkos, resulting in the deaths of some individuals and serious injuries to many others.

“This initial incident tragically marked the beginning of a series of attacks that have since claimed the lives of scores of people, leaving communities devastated and gripped by fear.

“Recognising the gravity of the situation, the IGP has directed DIG Kwazhi and the deployed security forces to undertake a multi-faceted approach, focusing not only on suppressing the ongoing violence but also on proactively preventing future attacks.

“Upon arrival in Plateau State on Tuesday, 8th April 2025, DIG Kwazhi paid a courtesy visit on the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang.

“During this meeting, DIG Kwazhi conveyed the IGP’s sincere condolences to the affected families and communities, as well as to the entire people of Plateau State.

“The meeting also served as an opportunity to assess the situation firsthand, delve into the root causes of the attacks, and collaboratively develop a sustainable, long-term solution to these senseless killings.”

The force reiterated its commitment to partnering with the Plateau government, community leaders, security agencies, and stakeholders.

The police also asked residents to support ongoing investigations by sharing useful information.