Three killed in fresh Plateau attacks

Fresh attacks in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria, have resulted in the deaths of three individuals, fueling concerns about a potential shift in armed group operations. The Berom Youth Moulders-Association (BYM) reported the incidents, suggesting that intensified security operations in neighboring Barkin Ladi might be driving armed groups to relocate their activities to Riyom.

According to a statement from BYM's National Publicity Secretary, Rwang Tengwong, armed assailants attacked the Sol village in Ta-Hoss community on Wednesday night, killing two residents, identified as Davou Dalyop Patu, 48, and Dalyop Zaram, 38. The association alleged that the attackers retreated to a nearby settlement in Kwakwi after the assault.

Tragically, another resident, Toma Chuwang, 55, was killed on Thursday morning at a mining site in Bangai, also within Riyom Local Government Area. This attack occurred while the bodies of the two victims from Ta-Hoss were being transported to the mortuary, highlighting the ongoing violence and insecurity in the region.

The BYM expressed deep concern that the groups responsible for previous attacks in Barkin Ladi may now be targeting Riyom. They appealed to both federal and state governments to bolster security presence in the area to prevent further loss of life. The association also implored residents to stay alert and continue cooperating with security agencies, including Operation Enduring Peace, by providing crucial intelligence.

These recent killings add to a disturbing pattern of violence across Plateau State. In early June, at least eight people were killed and ten injured in an attack on Gwon-Ajang village. Earlier incidents include ambushes and attacks on villages like Kyeng and Ngbra-Zongo, which claimed multiple lives, including women and children, drawing condemnation from human rights organizations like Amnesty International.

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After killing two in Ta-Hoss last night, this morning while the victims were being conveyed to the mortuary, one other person was killed five miles away in Bangai in the same Riyom LGA.