Gunmen have killed five people in a fresh attack on Nding Susut community in Fan District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State, sparking renewed fear among residents.
The raid occurred around 9pm on Tuesday, when assailants stormed the community and opened fire on unsuspecting victims, according to residents who spoke to The PUNCH.
A community member, Weng Christopher, said five members of the same family were killed instantly, while another resident also lost his life during the raid.
“This is becoming too frequent. People are living in constant fear,” he said, describing the situation as alarming.
The Publicity Secretary of Berom Youth Moulders, Rwang Tengwong, confirmed the incident and called for urgent intervention by security agencies, warning that repeated attacks have left communities vulnerable
He added that the gunmen also attempted to attack Rim community in neighbouring Riyom Local Government Area on the same night but were repelled by vigilantes and operatives of Operation Rainbow.
The Plateau State Police Command confirmed the killings in a statement issued on Wednesday by its spokesperson, SP Alfred Alabo.
According to the police, the attackers opened fire on residents seated outside their homes, killing four women and a nine-year-old boy. Three other victims sustained injuries and are receiving treatment at a hospital, while the bodies of the deceased have been deposited in the morgue.
Police said officers led by the Divisional Police Officer in Barkin Ladi were deployed immediately after the incident, and the area has since been secured.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Bassey Ewah, condemned the attack and extended condolences to the affected families, describing the killings as senseless.
He said additional tactical teams, including mobile police personnel and specialised units, have been deployed to the area for patrols, intelligence gathering and rapid response.
The command said investigations are ongoing, with efforts underway in collaboration with other security agencies and community leaders to apprehend those responsible.
Residents, however, say the latest attack has deepened anxiety in the area, with many calling on both the state and federal governments to take decisive action to prevent further loss of lives.
