At least six people have been killed and eight others injured after gunmen launched two separate overnight attacks on communities in Barkin Ladi and Riyom Local Government Areas of Plateau State, in incidents that have once again deepened fears over rural insecurity in the region.
The attacks, which happened within hours of each other on Sunday night, left residents in panic as armed men stormed villages, opened fire, and forced families to flee into surrounding bushes for safety.
How the attacks unfolded
In the first incident, gunmen invaded the Hurum Gashish community in Barkin Ladi around 10 p.m., shooting sporadically at residents.
Sources told Vanguard that the attackers operated freely for several minutes, leaving destruction in their wake before escaping.
In a separate but similar attack, another group of gunmen struck the Shonong Bachi community in Riyom Local Government Area at about 11 p.m., unleashing gunfire on residents.
Casualties recorded
Four persons were confirmed dead in the Barkin Ladi attack, while five others sustained injuries.
In Riyom, two persons were killed and three others injured, bringing the total casualties from both attacks to six dead and eight injured.
The injured victims are currently receiving treatment in nearby medical facilities, according to local sources.
Community reaction and concern
Residents described the attacks as terrifying, noting that many families abandoned their homes in the middle of the night to avoid being caught in the violence.
The National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Rwang Tenglong, confirmed the incidents and said the communities had been thrown into mourning.
He condemned the recurring assaults, describing them as alarming and unacceptable.
Security response
As of the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the Plateau State Police Command spokesperson, SP Alfred Alabo, for official confirmation were unsuccessful.
Security agencies are expected to intensify patrols in the affected areas as tensions remain high.
The latest attacks add to a growing pattern of violence in parts of Plateau State, where rural communities have continued to suffer repeated deadly raids.