A recent violent attack in the Rim, Jol, Kwi communities of Riyom LGA and Gana-Ropp community in Barkin Ladi LGA has resulted in the deaths of at least 21 people, including a clergyman. Several others have been left injured after the incident. This tragic occurrence took place a few hours after two herders were shot dead in the Fas community of Riyom LGA on the same day.
The state police command spokesperson, DSP Alabo Alfred, confirmed these incidents and stated that the security forces are actively handling the situation. According to him, the herders were the initial victims, followed by the subsequent late-night attacks. The state’s police commissioner has visited the crime scene, and an investigation into the causes of the attacks is currently underway.
The attackers reportedly invaded the villages during the night when the residents were asleep. According to Rwang Tengwong, National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Movement, two individuals were killed in Rim, seven in Jol, eleven in Kwi, and Reverend Nichodemus Kim in Gana-Ropp Barkin Ladi LGA.
The Berom Youth Movement has called on both the federal and state governments to devise new strategies to address the security situation in Plateau State and across the country.
In response to the escalating violence, Plateau State Governor, Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has appointed Brigadier General Gakji Goshwe Shipi (Rtd) as his Special Adviser on Security and Homeland Safety. This decision comes in light of a history of ethno-religious conflicts in the state lasting over two decades, resulting in the deaths of hundreds. Recently, over 150 individuals, including women and children, were killed in the villages of Mangu LGA.
Brigadier General Shipi, a former Army War College security studies and strategy teacher, is expected to leverage his extensive experience to improve the state’s security, according to a statement by Gyang Bere, the governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs.
