Armed gunmen struck multiple communities in Barkin Ladi on Saturday evening, killing at least eight people. A police officer was among those murdered in the coordinated assault.
Rwang Tengwong, spokesman for the Berom Youth Moulders-Association, confirmed the attacks in a statement released Sunday. He was speaking on behalf of association leader Solomon Mwantiri.
The violence erupted around 5:00pm across six communities within Barkin Ladi town. Sabon Layi, Rakung, Gana Ropp, Kworos-Gangare, Bet and Zat all came under fire simultaneously.
Seven residents died instantly during the Saturday evening assault. Gunmen killed an eighth victim the following morning.
Bitrus, a car painter from Kworos-Gangare, was discovered dead on Sunday. His body was found after the initial violence had subsided.
Those killed included Andrew, known locally as Baban Grace, and Dung Chung. Ngo Esther Yusuf also lost her life in the attacks.
A police officer named Baban Christy was among the dead. Four other victims remain unidentified, according to Tengwong's statement.
Seven people sustained injuries during the shootings. One victim received treatment at Jos University Teaching Hospital while others sought care within Barkin Ladi.
Injured survivors included Tek Pam, Dajack Pam and Paul Yakubu. Two male victims from Kashan Gwol and one from Sabon Layi were also wounded.
The Berom Youth Moulders-Association blamed security chiefs for the bloodshed. They voted no confidence in Colonel Victor Asuquo, who commands Operation Enduring Peace Sector 4.
Captain Bello, the operations officer, also faces criticism from the group. Association officials accused both men of negligence and failing to safeguard residents.
"Communities continue to come under coordinated attacks without swift or effective response from security," the statement read. "Residents now live in constant fear and trauma."
Tengwong noted that gunmen move freely across villages unleashing terror on civilians. Attacks happen both day and night with little military or police intervention.
Plateau State police spokesman Alfred Alabo could not be reached for comment. His phone lines were unavailable and text messages went unanswered as of press time.
Violence has plagued the region persistently in recent months. Fear and uncertainty grip residents across multiple communities in the state.
