THE Governor of Plateau State, Simon Lalong has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Jos North and South local government areas following the eruption of protests which were caused by a fresh attack by hoodlums in the area.

About 14 people were reportedly killed when unknown gunmen attacked the Rukuba Road axis of Jos North LGA on Thursday.

A statement issued by the Plateau State Police command said the hoodlums took advantage of the rain to attack the area.

“The unknown gunmen who took advantage of the ongoing rain in the area to attack residents were forced to run from the scene by the combined superior gunfire of the Police and the Operation Safe Haven (STF).

“Some people who reside close to the hills were rescued while some persons lost their lives as a result of the attack and some others sustained gunshot injuries and were rushed to Bingham University Teaching Hospital, Jos and are currently receiving treatment.

“The combined security is out to contain the situation in Jos. As such, members of the public are to remain calm and law abiding. A patrol of the area is being intensified and investigation of the crime has commenced.”

The police statement, however, did not state the number of persons that were killed in the attack but residents told journalists that 14 people died.

Angered by the attack, youths in Jos, the Plateau State capital, blocked major roads on Friday, chanting songs and burning tyres on the roads, prompting the state government to declare a curfew to prevent the situation from further degenerating.

“Sequel to (the) security breach in some parts of the Jos North, Gov. Simon Lalong, has approved the imposition of a disk-to-down curfew from 6: P.M to 6: A.M in Jos North and Jos South LGAs with immediate effect,” read a statement issued by Richard Tokma, Secretary to the Plateau State government.

“While assuring the protection of lives and properties of the people, citizens are advised to exercise restraint, to remain calm and report any suspicious movement to the law enforcement agents.”

Plateau State has witnessed several violent attacks and clashes over the years.