Several individuals have sustained injuries, and multiple homes have been set ablaze following a violent confrontation between traditional worshippers and Muslim youths in the Shimankar community, located in Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Reports indicate that religious and commercial establishments were also torched during the unrest, which began on Sunday night and extended into Monday morning. Despite the intervention of law enforcement officers and soldiers, the situation escalated, leaving residents in fear.
Eyewitnesses disclosed that the conflict was triggered when a group of traditional worshippers was passing through the area. A disagreement ensued between them and some Muslim youths, ultimately spiraling into violence.
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Amid the chaos, many residents, including women and children, were forced to flee their homes, while business activities came to a standstill.
Efforts to reach DSP Alabo Alfred, spokesperson for the Plateau State Police Command, for an official statement were unsuccessful at the time of this report. However, Major Samson Zhakom, spokesperson for Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), the multi-security task force responsible for maintaining peace in the region, assured that authorities were being informed of the situation.
As tensions remain high, residents have called for increased security presence to restore order and prevent further destruction.