11 killed in Nasarawa communal clash, police launch manhunt

Nasarawa State Police Command has launched a manhunt for perpetrators of a deadly communal attack in Udege Development Area of Nasarawa Local Government Area, which left at least 11 people dead and several homes destroyed.

Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, visited the affected communities of Akyawa and Udege Kasa on Friday, April 3, where he commiserated with victims and assessed the level of destruction.

The attack, which occurred in the early hours of the same day, was reportedly carried out by suspected hoodlums in what authorities described as a reprisal over the alleged killing of two persons.

During the violence, about 50 houses were burnt in Akyawa, while two others were destroyed in Udege Kasa.

Describing the incident as tragic, the police commissioner expressed sympathy with bereaved families and assured residents that those responsible would be brought to justice.

“We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident that led to the loss of innocent lives and destruction of property.

“The Command remains committed to ensuring that the perpetrators are identified, arrested, and prosecuted,” he said.

Following the attack, the CP ordered the immediate deployment of tactical teams and investigative units to track down those involved.

He also directed increased security presence in the area, with police working in collaboration with the military and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to restore calm.

During a stakeholders’ meeting held in the community, Mohammed urged residents to remain peaceful and support security agencies with useful information that could aid ongoing investigations.

The police authorities further stated that normalcy has since been restored, adding that proactive measures have been put in place to prevent a recurrence of violence in the affected communities.