Hardship: Security Operatives Take Over Market In Jos As Hoodlums Attempt To Break In

The popular Yankalli Market, one of the major commodity markets in Plateau State, has been taken over by security operatives including soldiers, police, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), following an attempt by hoodlums to break in to steal food and other essential commodities.

The hoodlums, which include both males and females, according to sources, arrived at the market around 8:00 pm on Friday but were intercepted by security operatives who had been deployed in anticipation of an attack.

Confirming the development, the chairman of the traders’ association, Alhaji Jamilu, stated that they had earlier reported it to security agencies.

He said, “We had heard on Thursday that hoodlums from Gangare, Rikkos, and other places would attack the market to loot food items on the ground that we sell the commodities at a high price. We didn’t take the rumour for granted and quickly reported the case to the security agencies that swiftly intervened. We had to sleep with our eyes open in the market to keep vigilance with the security.

“We are not the cause of inflation. The rise in price is not because of us. Our goods are always bought from companies. The increase is always from the companies. In addition, when you buy commodities from Lagos, you have to hire a truck for a price of over two million naira. What you spend on transporting the commodities to your destination is divided by the number of commodities, and that’s how the price is increasing. It is not our fault. We want people to understand that.

“In our market, we centrally control the price of goods. It is a competitive market where everyone is struggling to sell and bring in new goods. People should please understand with us.”

Spokesperson of the state police command, DSP Alabo Alfred, when contacted, said, “We got the information early, and with the support of some people in the market, we were able to suppress the attempt. The operation was led by the Area Commander of the area and was successful.”