Gunmen have reportedly killed a personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and abducted a businessman in Pushit community, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The killing and abduction occurred at about 9:30 p.m. on Monday.
Residents of the community and relatives of the deceased narrated after the businessman was abducted, the gunmen sighted the officer who was heading for a shop to buy recharge card, and they opened fire on him.
The residents added that the kidnappers believed the officer, who was in plain clothes, was coming toward them to prevent the abduction, unaware he was heading for a different location.
A member of the community, Lawrence Tabitha, told newsmen that “the deceased, a Deputy Superintendent of the NSCDC, was shot near his residence while riding his motorcycle.”
Tabitha said, “The gunmen had earlier abducted a businessman who deals in fuel, cement and fertiliser. The attackers opened fire on the NSCDC officer after the headlight of his motorcycle exposed their movement as they were fleeing the area with the abducted businessman.
“The incident has heightened concerns over the security situation in Pushit and surrounding communities despite measures put in place to curb attacks.”
He urged security agencies and the Plateau State Government “to urgently strengthen security in Pushit District and ensure the safe release of the abducted businessman.
“Residents are particularly worried by the repeated attacks recorded in communities within the district, including Vodni, Sabon Gari and Nchiya, “ he added.
When contacted the spokesperson of Plateau NSCDC command, ASP AR Rimvyok, confirmed the incident saying, “it is true.”
