Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) has warned troops deployed to maintain peace in some troubled areas in Plateau not to take side.
Lagbaja gave the warning while addressing troops at Mangu Local Government Area of the statte, on Saturday, following the recent security breach in the locality.
The COAS, who expressed sadness over the wanton destruction of lives and property in the area, charged the troops go after the law breakers.
”Six months ago I was here and launched a special operation; on Dec. 31, 2023 I came again following the security challenges in some parts of the state.
”In the last one week, the security situation has deteriorated and so I’m here to charge all of you to end these happenings.
”I charge you to go after the bad elements; as soldiers your duty is to go after criminals. Do not spare anyone who constitutes threat to the peace of this area.
”Your rules of engagement is clear and you must work within it. Do not take side because if such is reported and anyone found wanting after investigation won’t spared,”he said.
Lagbaja, who tasked the troops to be professional and responsible in the discharge of their duties, urged them to be committed toward bringing lasting peace to all troubled areas in Plateau.
The COAS, who dismissed the allegation making the rounds that soldiers were behind the recent killings in the state, advised the troops not to be swayed by the allegations.
He, however, called on the residents of the state to cooperate and support the military and other security agencies in their bid toward addressing current security challenges confronting the state.