‘Our women assaulted, valuables missing’, Plateau herders cry out after SSS raid

By Muhammad Tanko Shittu — Fulani herders in Kwok community, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, have accused operatives of the State Security Service, SSS, of harassment, assault and destruction of property during a security operation in the area.

The residents alleged that women were subjected to various forms of abuse, including attempted sexual harassment, during the raid over an offence they insisted the community did not commit.

They also claimed that cash, metal containers and other valuables went missing after the operation.

Speaking with journalists in Kwok community on Thursday, the residents said the raid, which began on Saturday, left many people traumatised.

They further alleged that DSS operatives returned to the community on four consecutive days after the initial operation.

A community elder, Yusuf Muhammad, condemned the operation, describing it as an ordeal that subjected residents to days of fear and unrest.

“On the first day of the operation, the operatives stormed the community around 12 noon on Saturday, shooting sporadically,” he said.

“They dispersed residents and cattle. Even children were affected and many sustained injuries.”

Questioning the conduct of the operatives, Muhammad said, “Is that how security operatives are expected to operate? They assaulted women. We are Nigerian citizens like every other person, and we will pursue all legal means to ensure justice is served.”

A female resident, Zainab Abubakar, alleged that SSS operatives forced their way into her room during a night operation.

“I was sleeping when some of them forced the door open and entered. One of them sat on a chair and switched on a torchlight. I tried to leave the room, but he stopped me and held my hand. I asked him to let go,” she alleged.

Another community leader, Abubakar Usman, described the repeated operations as intimidating.

“We don’t know why security operatives always come to our community. If they suspect anyone of wrongdoing, they should conduct themselves professionally. They should inform us, and we will assist in identifying and arresting any suspect,” he said.

When contacted, officials at the SSS office in Barkin Ladi declined to comment and referred journalists to the Plateau State Command.

However, a Personal Assistant to the State Director said only the agency’s National Headquarters was authorised to respond to media enquiries.