The Plateau State Police Command has confirmed that one suspect has been arrested while three people lost their lives after a pre-dawn attack on Pwomol Village in Heipang District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
The attack happened at about 4:30 a.m. on Monday when armed men stormed the community and opened fire indiscriminately, triggering a distress call to security agencies.
According to a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, SP Alfred Alabo, the Commissioner of Police, CP Bassey Ewah, immediately deployed a joint security team made up of the Divisional Police Officer in Barkin Ladi, military personnel and other operatives.
The combined team reportedly confronted the attackers in a gun duel, forcing them to retreat into nearby mountainous forests.
Police confirmed that three persons were killed during the incident, while another victim sustained injuries and was taken to the hospital for medical attention.
Security operatives later carried out a clearance operation in the area and arrested a suspect identified simply as Suleiman near the Redemption Camp area.
The suspect, said to have visible blood stains on his body, is currently in police custody.
Following the incident, CP Ewah visited the community for an on-the-spot assessment.
He condoled with the families of the deceased and assured them that a thorough, professional and transparent investigation would be conducted to bring the fleeing suspects to justice.
The police boss urged residents to remain calm and vigilant, and to report any suspicious movements to the nearest security agency.
To strengthen security in the area, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has ordered additional deployment of personnel, intensified patrols and enhanced synergy among security agencies.
The Plateau State Police Command also announced full enforcement of the curfew in the affected area and warned residents to comply strictly to avoid sanctions.
