Terror strikes again: Six dead, many injured in Plateau night attacks

At least six persons have been killed and several others injured following coordinated attacks on two communities in Plateau State, deepening concerns over persistent insecurity in the region.

The attacks, which occurred in Shonun community of Riyom Local Government Area and Hurum in Gashish District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, were carried out on the same night by armed assailants who reportedly stormed the areas on foot.

The Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Tengong Rwang, who confirmed the incidents in a telephone interview with Channels TV, said four persons were killed in Hurum, while five others sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment.

In Shonun, two persons were confirmed dead, with three others hospitalised following the attack.

Rwang alleged that the incidents followed earlier warnings by residents of Shonun over the influx of unfamiliar herders into the area, which he said had been reported to security agencies without any visible response.

According to him, in the days leading up to the attack, herders in neighbouring settlements had been bringing in unknown individuals in trucks, prompting residents to evacuate women and children for safety.

“The people of Shonun had earlier informed security operatives about strange movements into the community, but nothing seemed to have been done,” he said.

He described the affected communities as long-suffering, noting that repeated attacks over the years have forced many residents to abandon their homes and seek refuge in safer locations.

“These are communities that have suffered repeated attacks. Most people have fled their homes for fear of being killed,” he added.

Rwang further disclosed that local vigilantes attempted to repel the attackers but were overwhelmed, resulting in the casualties recorded.

He also criticised what he described as the ineffectiveness of security presence in the area, despite the existence of security units.

“We are still calling on the government to act swiftly and rid our communities of these attackers,” he said.

When contacted, the Plateau State Police Public Relations Officer, Alfred Alabo, said he had yet to receive a formal briefing on the incidents as of press time, but assured that an update would be provided after details are obtained from divisional officers in the affected areas.