STF intercepts 213 vehicles conveying vigilantes in Plateau

Vehicles numbering 213, conveying armed vigilantes, was yesterday intercepted by security operatives in Jos the Plateau state capital, the Commander for the Special Task Force (STF), on Jos crisis, Major General Rogers Ibe Nicholas, has said.

Gen. Nicholas while speaking with newsmen during a courtesy call paid to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Plateau state chapter, said the vehicles were intercepted at Sector 9 check point in Ryiom local government area of the state.

He said the vigilantes came from various states with the aim to commence training at the NYSC orientation camp located in Mangu LGA of the state without authorization from relevant authorities

His words: “The group wore different types of uniforms and when intercepted said they were coming from Jigawa, Nasarawa, Adamawa, Taraba, Ilorin, Kaduna, Kebi and Benue states. However, after due interrogation, we found out that they were illegally making entering into Plateau state for the purpose of training and we have made it clear that we shall not allow any group or persons coming into the state with arms for whatever purpose without authorization because we want to sustain the peace we laboured so hard to build.

“If anyone is coming to Plateau with arms to train, you must have documents to show, before we can allow you”, the STF boss reiterate.

Earlier, the CAN state chairman, Rev. Dr. Soja Bewarang, said the STF acted promptly by intercepting the strange uniformed men in the guise of vigilante group, adding that the church will continue to pray for the Special Task Force for the sustenance of the already existing peace in the state.

Gen. Nicholas in recent time, has been visiting both the Christian and Muslim religious bodies in the state with the aim to solicit their support and prayers, charging them to persuade their subjects in their various place of worship on the need for peaceful coexistence.