Plateau State Violence: BECO seeks accountability for deaths of two females, urges investigation into security forces' actions

The Berom Educational and Cultural Organisation (BECO) Worldwide has demanded a thorough probe into the death of two women who allegedly lost their lives during a security operation in Gero community, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State.

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The organisation has vehemently condemned the incident, stating that it has had enough of the recurring violence and insecurity that has been plaguing communities in the state.

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The incident, which occurred on Monday, sparked tension in the area, prompting protests from residents and reports of vandalism at parts of the Jos South Local Government Secretariat.

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The two women were reportedly shot dead behind the council secretariat in Gero, although the circumstances surrounding their deaths remained unclear at the time of filing this report.

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Some community members have made allegations that security operatives were responsible for the killings, but these claims have not been independently verified.

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District President of BECO Worldwide, Da Gyang Dudu Dalyop, has called for an impartial investigation to determine the sequence of events, suggesting that the incident may have resulted from poor communication, inadequate community engagement, and excessive use of force.

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According to Dalyop, residents of the affected communities have endured years of attacks and insecurity, rendering them extremely sensitive to unfamiliar movements, particularly those involving armed personnel.

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Dalyop explained that the security personnel were reportedly in the area for an operation, but residents became suspicious because they were allegedly not informed about the purpose of the mission.

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He emphasized that proper engagement with community leaders before the operation could have prevented the misunderstanding, stating that the community has been living with constant attacks and is very sensitive to any movement they do not understand.

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Dalyop questioned the use of force against civilians, alleging that the security operatives fired warning shots before the women were killed, and expressed that he does not see any reason why maximum force should be used on women who were not carrying weapons or posing any threat.

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He urged the Commissioner of Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), military authorities, and other relevant security agencies to investigate the incident and establish the facts surrounding the deaths.

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Dalyop also raised concerns over coordination among security agencies, stressing the need for better communication with community leaders and local stakeholders before security operations are carried out.

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The BECO leader appealed to the government to intensify efforts to address insecurity in Plateau State, warning that continued violence is creating frustration among residents and has led to a loss of lives, with the youths becoming restless.

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Dalyop disclosed that two women died in the incident, while another person was receiving treatment in a hospital in critical condition.

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He urged authorities to ensure that future security operations involve traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to prevent misunderstandings and promote cooperation between security agencies and communities.

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Dalyop emphasized that community leaders must be carried along whenever there is any form of deployment, stating that everyone is a partner in security and it should not be treated in isolation.