A coordinated attack by gunmen on five communities in Barakin-Ladi and Riyom local areas of Plateau State, Nigeria, has resulted in the deaths of at least 12 people and injuries to seven others. The communities of Kwi, Bachit, Foron, Heipang, and Wereng were all targeted in the attack, which took place on Sunday evening at around 8:30 pm and lasted for approximately two hours.
The gunmen reportedly arrived in the communities on motorcycles, launching a surprise attack that left residents unable to mount an effective defense. The attackers proceeded to go on a killing spree and destroy property before fleeing the scene on motorcycles.
A community leader who wished to remain anonymous stated that the attackers had divided themselves into various groups to carry out the attack. The breakdown of the casualties shows that four people were killed in Heipang, one in Kwi, and two in Foron, all in Barakin-Ladi local government. Meanwhile, three were killed in Wereng and two in Bachit. Additionally, seven people were injured.
Barrister Dalyop Solomon, the National President of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, revealed that prior to the attack, there were reports of plans to attack six local government areas in the state. According to him, the recent cases of isolated killings and invasions of communities were part of a ploy to frustrate farming activities and expand territory.
The recent unprovoked attacks on the five communities have increased tension and apprehension in the affected areas. Solomon called on security agencies to intervene and apprehend the perpetrators. The Plateau State Police Command spokesman, DSP Alfred Alabo, confirmed the attack and stated that the security agencies are on top of the situation and working to bring the perpetrators to justice.
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