12 killed in fresh Plateau attacks

At least 12 persons have been killed in separate attacks on communities in Riyom and Bassa LGAs of Plateau state.

The attacks, which occurred in the late hours of May 8 and the early hours of May 9, come amid renewed violence and reprisal killings across parts of the state.

Security sources told Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, that three persons were killed after suspected militia members attacked Gwa Rim village in Riyom LGA at about 11pm on Thursday.

The sources said troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), who had earlier been deployed in Angwan Wereng following a security threat alert, responded after receiving distress calls over sporadic gunfire in the area.

“On arrival at the scene, troops discovered three locals already killed by the attackers who fled on sighting the advancing security personnel,” a military source was quoted as saying.

The victims were identified as Alpha David, Matthew Solomon, and Timothy Dachung.

The sources said troops subsequently dominated the area and launched operations to track down the fleeing attackers and prevent further violence.

However, tension reportedly escalated after some youths in the community resisted attempts by security operatives to evacuate the corpses to a mortuary.

In a separate incident, no fewer than nine persons were killed after gunmen attacked Zhe Brazongo village in Bassa LGA.

Security sources told Makama that the attack occurred at about 12:15am on Friday after troops received reports of gunshots from the community.

According to the sources, troops mobilised to the village following the distress call, but the attackers had fled before security operatives arrived.

“During search operations around the village, troops discovered nine corpses of villagers with gunshot wounds and machete cuts,” another military source said.

Preliminary findings indicated that the attackers invaded the community in large numbers and opened fire on residents before escaping through nearby routes.

Several persons were also reportedly injured in the attack.

Security personnel later took control of the area to prevent further attacks and restore calm.

The latest attacks are part of renewed violence recorded in Plateau communities, particularly in Riyom, Bassa, Barkin Ladi, and Mangu LGAs.

Military authorities said troops of Operation Enduring Peace have intensified patrols, rapid response operations, and intelligence-driven missions across vulnerable communities to contain the worsening security situation. (TheCable)