At least five miners were killed while two others sustained injuries after gunmen attacked them at a mining site in Marit village, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The Punch reported that the incident occurred around 1pm on Saturday when the miners were carrying out their activities at the site.
The attack has left residents of the community mourning and renewed concerns about the safety of people operating in the area.
Confirming the incident, the National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders-Association, Rwang Tengwong, said five people were killed while two others were injured.
“It is a very sad and painful development. Our people are once again mourning the loss of lives to violence,” Tengwong said, while calling on security agencies to intensify efforts to protect communities and prevent recurrence.
A resident of the community, Simon Mundat, also described the attack as devastating.
“We are deeply saddened by this attack. We appeal to authorities to strengthen security in the area so that our people can go about their legitimate activities without fear,” he said.
Meanwhile, security operatives working with local hunters reportedly foiled an attack by suspected terrorists on Latok community in Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area of the state.
A community member, Danat Noel, said the attackers invaded the community on Friday but were forced to withdraw following the intervention of security personnel and local hunters.
Efforts by The PUNCH to obtain confirmation from the state police on Sunday were unsuccessful, as the Police Public Relations Officer, Alfred Alabo, did not respond to calls and a WhatsApp message sent to him.
Alabo reportedly ended three calls after questions were put to him about the killing of the miners before ignoring further calls.
