Five killed in Plateau village attack

The police have confirmed that five people lost their lives and many others were injured in an attack in Gwan-Ajang. This village is in the Foron District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area in Plateau State.

Alfred Alabo, the police public relations officer for the state command, said the incident took place on Sunday night. Gunmen opened fire on residents who were gathered for a social event.

In a statement obtained by PREMIUM TIMES, Mr Alabo said officers from the Gindiri Division got a distress call at about 9:22 p.m. They quickly mobilised to the community.

“On arrival, our officers met a grim scene with some persons lying in pools of their blood. Five victims were confirmed dead, while more than 10 others sustained varying degrees of injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment,” he said.

The attack occurred while residents were enjoying a social gathering. Mr Alabo explained that the village's location, close to the boundary between Barkin Ladi and Mangu local government areas, led to some confusion about where the incident happened.

“The area is sometimes reported as either Barkin Ladi or Mangu, depending on the source of the information,” the police spokesperson added.

Mr Alabo mentioned that the Commissioner of Police had ordered increased operations in the area. The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of operations is coordinating the response.

He also said the police are working with other security agencies, including Operation Enduring Peace, to restore calm and find those responsible for the attack.

“Our men are on the ground. Joint patrols and surveillance have been stepped up, and we have credible intelligence that will aid arrests,” he said. He noted that normalcy has largely returned to the area.

But the Berom Youths Moulder-Association disagreed with the police casualty figure. They claimed at least seven people were killed during the attack.

Rwang Tengwong, the National Publicity Secretary of the group, said the victims were shot when armed men invaded the village around 9:30 p.m.

The group also alleged that more than 10 people were seriously injured and are receiving treatment in hospitals.

Police authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing. They urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could help catch the attackers.

This attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents in parts of Plateau State. Barkin Ladi and nearby local government areas have seen ongoing security challenges despite current operations.