The Plateau State Government has mandated security agencies in the state to embark on massive manhunt for the arrest of looters and ensure materials are recovered and the culprits are prosecuted.
This was part of the decision reached at the end of State Security Council meeting held in Jos on Monday following the massive looting that has been perpetrated across the State in the last two days.
Briefing newsmen after the meeting held at Government House,Jos, Secretary to the State Government, Danladi Atu said so far, the situation is calm but still fluid as there are still threats to attack other public and private businesses as well as individuals.
READ ALSO : Plateau Govt. Denies Hoarding Palliatives,Condemns Looting
He said the Council agreed to further fortify all check-points in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Areas to give effect to the curfew imposed in order to restore peace that will determine the next line of action.
Atu said so far, 7 courts have been designated for the prosecution of the 307 suspects so far arrested at various locations where the looting took place.
The Council however warned members of the public from consuming some of the looted food items because they are dangerous for human consumption as they have been chemically treated for preservation.
The Council also encouraged the sustenance of all channels of engagement and dialogue with youth groups, community leaders, professional bodies, associations and traditional rulers to foster more understanding that will lead to a de-escalation of the current situation.
Members of the security forces were commended for their efforts so far and encouraged to continue to work in restoring and maintaining peace in the State.
The State Government again restated that there was no hoarding of palliatives as the looted items were delivered to the State by the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development just before the #ENDSARS protests began which made it difficult for the distribution to commence before the sad looting and destruction of the warehouses.
The council advised members of the public to be wary of propaganda and disinformation that is perpetrated through the social media to incite the people against government and encourage chaos, saying no society can exist without law and order.
READ ALSO : Hoodlums Loot COVID19 Palliatives In Edo,Plateau,Osun
The Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor, Makut Macham listed some of the looted and vandalized properties to include: SEMA Warehouse (Old Nitel Bukuru), PRUWASSA, PADP (Dogon Dutse Jos), Mineral Museum (Angul D, Bukuru), ASTC Vom, Plateau Publishing Company, SUBEB (Dogon Dutse), Government Technical College Bukuru, Ryom Local Government Secretariat, School of Home Economics Vom, Jos foods, Jos Trade Fair (Polo), Private Residence of former Speaker, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara.
Others such as Grand Cereals Bukuru, State and Federal Secretariats and Private residences of some individuals have also been threatened.
