Crime
Plateau Gov Lalong relaxes curfew, urges security forces to be harsh on defaulters
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Simon Lalong has relaxed the 24-hour curfew imposed after the crisis on Saturday that led to the death of over 25 persons.
The governor said this after a meeting with security agencies in the State House on Wednesday.
He called on parents, guardians and the citizenry at large to advise those in their care to stop fomenting trouble or face the long arm of the law.
The curfew will now be observed from 6am to 6pm.
This relaxation of the curfew was disclosed in a statement by the Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State, Dr. Makut Simon Macham.
“Under the new arrangement, the curfew will be observed from 6pm to 6am daily beginning from Thursday 19th August 2021. This will also apply to Bassa and Jos South Local Government Areas until further notice.
“The decision was reached after the State Security Council meeting held at the Government House Rayfield on Wednesday, 18th August 2021 where the Governor received briefings from the heads of security agencies and also reviewed the situation.
“In relaxing the curfew, Governor Simon Lalong warned trouble makers to desist from threatening lives and properties of citizens or be ready for a showdown with security forces who have been directed to be tough with anyone causing a breach of the peace.
“He expressed outrage over what he called the desperation of criminals bent on causing mayhem in the State, as there were isolated attacks which led to loss of lives and destruction of properties in some areas of Jos North and Bassa LGAs during the curfew.
“While the curfew is relaxed in Jos North, security agencies will mount permanent checkpoints in high vulnerable areas; deploy more uniform and plain clothes personnel; and also observe the conduct of citizens round the clock.
“The Governor also reiterated that the prohibition on processions was still in force and anyone found violating the order will be dealt with according to the law.
“The Governor appreciated the cooperation of law abiding citizens and urged them to continue to support Government to deal with the situation and restore normalcy to the affected areas and the State at large.
“He urged parents and community leaders to prevail on their wards to maintain peace as the Government does not want to be forced to always resort to curfews which affects the economy and freedom of the people and the State as a whole.
