Gunmen Kill 2, Burn Houses In Plateau Communities

Two persons have been killed and another wounded in fresh attacks on Berom communities in Plateau State, the Berom Youth Moulders Association, BYM, has said.

The attacks, which occurred on Tuesday night were reported in four locations, including Gwa-Wereng Rim, Kyeng Village in Bachi District, Dorong and Jol Village.

A resident of one of the affected areas, Lyop Gabriel, said the attack at Gwa-Wereng Rim occurred at about 9:30 p.m., when the gunmen invaded the community and opened fire on the villagers.

In a statement issued yesterday by the national publicity secretary of BYM, Rwang Tengwong, the association said the gunmen attacked Gwa-Wereng Rim, killing Bulus Mwagwong, popularly known as Dikko, while his cousin, Yakubu, was fatally injured.

He said 47-year-old Stephen Dachollom Kaze was also killed by the attackers at Kyeng Village, Bachi District, at about 8:30 p.m.

According to the statement, another attack was recorded at Dorong, where the attackers set houses ablaze and forced the residents to flee.

At Jol Village, the attackers engaged local vigilantes in an exchange of gunfire, further heightening tension in the community.

BYM condemned the attacks, describing them as a disturbing threat to the lives, livelihoods and safety of rural communities.

The association expressed concern over what it described as the increasing frequency of attacks on communities, particularly farmers and other residents who depend on their farmlands for their livelihoods.

They called on security agencies to immediately strengthen their presence in vulnerable communities, intensify surveillance and pursue those responsible for the attacks.

It also urged the security agencies to ensure that perpetrators of the killings and destruction were arrested and brought to justice.

The association appealed to the Plateau State Government and other relevant authorities to provide immediate assistance to affected families and communities, particularly those who lost loved ones, homes and other properties in the attacks.

It extended its condolences to the families of Mwagwong and Kaze, while wishing Yakubu a speedy recovery.

The association also urged residents to remain vigilant, peaceful and united, stressing that concerted efforts were required to prevent further escalation of violence in affected communities.

BYM called for urgent and decisive security action to protect lives and property and restore confidence among residents of the affected communities.