Personnel of Operation Rainbow, a Plateau State government-backed security outfit, have been accused of attacking a Fulani community in Gashish District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area and setting houses ablaze, amid growing concerns over alleged abuses against civilians.
Reports from the area indicated that personnel linked to the outfit allegedly entered the community around Gindi Akwati Junction in Nghar in the early hours of Monday, October 19, where they were accused of harassing residents and destroying property, including setting residential buildings on fire.
The circumstances surrounding the reported incident remain unclear, while the number of houses affected and the extent of the damage have yet to be independently established.
Residents have also reportedly expressed fears following claims that the personnel were moving towards Fass, raising concerns about the possibility of further confrontations and the safety of neighbouring communities.
The development has added to existing tensions in Plateau State, where recurring violence involving different communities has continued to pose serious security and humanitarian challenges.
In recent months, Operation Rainbow has faced allegations of involvement in covert operations targeting Fulani communities, killings and cattle rustling. However, these claims have not been independently verified.
The latest allegations have renewed concerns about the conduct of security personnel operating in conflict-affected areas and the need to ensure that efforts to maintain law and order do not expose innocent civilians to further harm.
Observers warn that incidents involving allegations of collective punishment or attacks against particular ethnic communities could deepen mistrust, heighten tensions and complicate efforts to restore lasting peace in Plateau State.
The reported movement towards Fass has further heightened anxiety among residents, although the precise circumstances and intentions behind the alleged deployment remain unclear.
As tensions persist, calls for an impartial investigation into the incident, accountability where wrongdoing is established, and protection for all vulnerable communities are likely to grow.
The situation underscores the importance of a transparent security response that prioritises civilian protection, respects the rights of all communities and prevents the escalation of local disputes into wider ethnic confrontations.
Source:@ZagazolaMakama
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