Five miners have been killed while two others sustained injuries after gunmen ambushed them during mining activities at Marit village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The attack, which occurred at about 1 p.m. on Saturday, has thrown the community into mourning, with residents calling for improved security measures to protect people carrying out legitimate activities in the area.
The spokesman of the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), Rwang Tengwong, confirmed the incident, describing it as another painful loss for the community.
According to him, the victims were attacked while working at the mining site in Marit village.
“Five persons were killed, while two others sustained injuries in the attack. It is a very sad and painful development. Our people are once again mourning the loss of lives to violence,” Tengwong said.
He condemned the attack and appealed to security agencies to strengthen efforts to safeguard communities and prevent further incidents.
“This attack is condemnable, and we call on the security agencies to urgently take steps to protect our communities and ensure that residents can go about their lawful activities without fear,” he added.
A community member, Simon Mundat, also confirmed the incident, describing the attack as devastating.
“We are deeply saddened by this attack. Five people have been killed and two others injured. This is a very painful situation for the community,” Mundat said.
He appealed to authorities to increase security presence in the area to enable residents and miners to carry out their activities safely.
Efforts to get confirmation from security agencies were unsuccessful as of press time.
Meanwhile, security operatives, working with local hunters, reportedly repelled an attack by suspected terrorists on Latok community in Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area of the state.
The attack occurred on Friday when the attackers invaded the community, prompting a swift response from security personnel and local hunters.
A resident, Danat Noel, said the joint security team engaged the attackers and forced them to retreat.
The latest incident adds to growing security concerns in parts of Plateau State, where residents have continued to call for sustained measures to protect communities and lives.
