Gunmen Kill Five, Including Family of Four, in Fresh Plateau Attack

By Margaret Abah

Fear and tension have gripped the Nding Susut community in Fan District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State after gunmen stormed the area on Tuesday night, killing five people, including members of a single family.

The attack, which occurred around 9 pm, has further heightened concerns over recurring violent incidents in parts of the state.

A community member, Weng Christopher, who confirmed the incident on Wednesday, said the attackers invaded the area and opened fire on unsuspecting residents.

“Five members of the same family were killed on the spot, while another resident of the community was also killed during the attack,” he said.

He described the situation as “alarming and distressing,” noting that residents now live in constant fear.

The killings were also confirmed by the Publicity Secretary of Berom Youth Moulders, Rwang Tengwong, who condemned the attack and called for urgent intervention by security agencies.

Tengwong said the violence has become “too frequent,” urging authorities to intensify efforts to protect lives and property across the state.

He also disclosed that the attackers attempted to invade Rim community in neighbouring Riyom Local Government Area the same night but were repelled by local vigilantes and operatives of Operation Rainbow, a state security outfit.

The Plateau State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Wednesday.

According to the command’s spokesperson, SP Alfred Alabo, the gunmen attacked residents sitting in front of their homes, killing five people—four females and a nine-year-old boy.

Three other victims sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the General Hospital, while the deceased have been deposited at the morgue.

Police said a team led by the Divisional Police Officer in Barkin Ladi was immediately deployed to the scene, adding that the area has since been secured.

Commissioner of Police, CP Bassey Ewah, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a “senseless act of violence,” while extending condolences to the victims’ families.

He also ordered the deployment of additional tactical teams and mobile police units to the area for patrols, intelligence gathering, and rapid response operations.

The command said investigations have commenced in collaboration with other security agencies and community leaders to track down the perpetrators.

Residents have continued to express concern over worsening insecurity in Barkin Ladi, calling on government authorities to take urgent and decisive action to prevent further loss of lives.