The statement issued by the Bokkos Cultural Development Council Vanguard, chaired by Farmasum Fuddang, detailed the tragic incident, attributing the villager’s death to the accidental discharge from a soldier during soldier’s birthday celebration at a relaxation center in the community. According to Farmasum, the soldier, in a moment of recklessness, fired random shots during his birthday celebration, resulting in the fatal shooting of the villager. Despite the accidental nature of the discharge, he emphasized that authorities unjustly labeled the victim and assisting residents as militants. This misrepresentation further exacerbated the situation, detracting from the true circumstances of the incident and the need for accountability.
Demanding accountability and justice, the group urged military and state authorities to take decisive action in apprehending and prosecuting the accused personnel. They also called for the immediate release of individuals arrested in connection with attempting to aid the victim.
The Media and Information Officer of Operation Safe Haven, Major Samson Zhakom, informed Channels Television that military authorities are currently addressing the situation, with a decision expected soon. He emphasized that military authorities are handling the matter, indicating that they are taking steps to resolve it promptly.
Expressing condemnation of the incident, the Plateau State Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Barrister Philemon Daffi, criticized the perpetrator’s attempt to cover up the crime by falsely implicating innocent bystanders and residents who tried to assist the victim. He denounced this deceitful action as a flagrant violation of justice and humanity, calling for accountability and swift action from military and state authorities.
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