Gunmen attack mining site, kill three women in Plateau

Three women were killed and another person injured when gunmen attacked a mining site in Rakum community, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State on Monday.

The attackers stormed the mining site around 4:30 PM and opened fire on workers before escaping.

Rwang Tengwong, spokesman for the Berom Youth Moulders Association, confirmed the incident to The PUNCH in Jos on Monday. He said three women were killed while another person got hurt.

Tengwong said, “The incident happened at Rakum. Three women were killed while another person was injured when the attackers stormed the mining site and opened fire.

“This is another sad development that has further heightened concerns over the safety of people working and living in the area. We are calling on the security operatives to immediately go after the perpetrators and ensure that those responsible are arrested and brought to justice.”

John Silas, a community member, also confirmed the incident. He said the attack took place around 4 PM.

Silas said, “The attackers came to the mining site and opened fire on the people there. Three women were killed and another person was injured.

“We are deeply worried because people should be able to go about their legitimate businesses without being attacked. We are appealing to the security operatives to intensify efforts to track down the attackers and prevent further attacks in the community.”

This latest incident comes amid a rise in deadly attacks across Plateau State in recent weeks. Areas like Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Riyom, and Bokkos local government areas have seen increased violence, despite a curfew imposed by the state government.

On Saturday, six people were reportedly killed at Laja village in Mangu. Some vigilantes were also killed at their post in Kikyo village, Mangu, during curfew hours.

Attacks have also been reported in Cantoma and Bin-Per villages in Mangu, and Kasa village in the Marit District of Barkin Ladi. This has raised tension in these communities.

The recent attacks have drawn condemnation from the four branches of the Nigerian Bar Association in Plateau State.

As of the time of this report, security agencies had yet to comment on Monday’s attack at the mining site.

When contacted, Alabo Alfred, the spokesman for the Plateau State Police Command, was not immediately available for comment. Calls to his mobile phone went unanswered.