Bloodbath in Plateau: Fresh Killings at Mining Site Spark Widespread Outrage

The Berom Youth Moulders-Association (BYM) has reported a disturbing series of violent incidents and killings across Plateau State, specifically highlighting escalating insecurity in Barkin Ladi and Jos South Local Government Areas. The association has condemned these recurring attacks and called for urgent intervention from security agencies to protect vulnerable communities.

One of the latest incidents occurred on a Tuesday night, when gunmen reportedly opened fire on residents in Zargwok community of Gashish District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. This attack tragically resulted in the deaths of two residents, Ayuba Danladi, 33 years old, and Luka Macham, 35 years old, who were reportedly on community patrol at the time. The remains of the deceased were subsequently deposited at the ECWA Clinic.

In a separate but equally concerning event, the BYM expressed outrage over an attack on a mining site in Nyango, Gyel District of Jos South Local Government Area. On another Tuesday morning, armed men stormed the site, killing three persons and injuring several others. An eyewitness, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described how assailants, suspected to be Fulani terrorists, invaded the area while miners and residents were engaged in daily activities. The attackers ransacked the mining site, carted away valuables, and escaped before security operatives could arrive, with the casualty figure potentially higher if not for the swift escape of many miners.

The BYM also reacted to claims made by the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) concerning the deaths of four of its members around the Gero–Rafin Bauna axis of Jos South Local Government Area. According to the BYM, these four individuals were among a group that had allegedly attacked a mining site in Nyango, Gyel District, on June 29. That earlier attack reportedly resulted in the deaths of three local miners and injuries to two others. Local vigilante members mobilized in response, leading to a confrontation during which the four suspected attackers were neutralized, while others reportedly fled.

In statements signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Rwang Tengwong, the BYM emphasized that these killings are not isolated incidents but part of a disturbing pattern of violent attacks that continue to threaten lives and livelihoods. The association noted that residents of Gyel and neighbouring communities, including those in Bassa Local Government Area, have repeatedly raised concerns over insecurity allegedly perpetrated by armed elements operating around the Gyero and Rafin Buna axis.

The Berom Youth Moulders-Association has called on security agencies and relevant government authorities to urgently dismantle criminal hideouts operating in the affected areas, take decisive action against those responsible for the attacks, and conduct thorough, impartial, and transparent investigations into both incidents. The BYM urged authorities to intensify efforts to protect vulnerable communities, apprehend perpetrators, end the cycle of violence, and restore lasting peace and public confidence in the protection of lives and property across the affected communities.

As of the time of filing this report, efforts to obtain comments from the spokesperson of the Plateau State Police Command, SP Alfred Alabo, were unsuccessful. Furthermore, security agencies had yet to issue an official statement on the latest attacks or confirm the casualty figures.