A mining site in Marit village, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria, was attacked by gunmen on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of at least five miners. The incident occurred around 1pm while the victims were carrying out mining activities. The attack has thrown the community into mourning, with concerns raised over the safety of people engaging in legitimate economic activities across parts of the state.
The National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Rwang Tengwong, confirmed the incident, stating that five people were killed and two others sustained injuries. Tengwong expressed sadness and concern over the recurring violence in the area, calling on security agencies to intensify efforts to protect communities and prevent further attacks.
A community member, Simon Mundat, described the incident as devastating and urged authorities to strengthen security in the area. Mundat appealed to authorities to ensure that people can go about their legitimate activities without fear of attack. The community is still reeling from the shock of the attack, with many residents expressing concerns over their safety.
As of the time of reporting, security agencies had yet to issue an official statement on the attack. However, in a separate development, security operatives working with local hunters reportedly repelled an attack by suspected terrorists on Latok community in Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area of the state. The attackers invaded the community on Friday but withdrew following a response from security personnel and local hunters.
A resident, Danat Noel, confirmed that the attackers were repelled by security personnel and local hunters. Noel's account suggests that the security measures in place were effective in preventing further harm, but concerns remain over the safety of other communities in the area. The Plateau State Police Command has yet to comment on the incidents.
Efforts to obtain comments from the Plateau State Police Command were unsuccessful, as the Police Public Relations Officer, Alfred Alabo, did not respond to calls and messages regarding the incident. The lack of official response has raised concerns over the effectiveness of security agencies in responding to and preventing such attacks.
The attack on the mining site has raised concerns over the security situation in Plateau State, with many calling for increased measures to protect communities and prevent further violence. The incident has also highlighted the risks faced by people engaging in legitimate economic activities in areas prone to violence.
Key points
- Five miners were killed and two injured in the attack on a mining site in Marit village, Plateau State.
- The attack has thrown the community into mourning, with concerns raised over the safety of people engaging in legitimate economic activities.
- Security agencies have yet to issue an official statement on the attack, but reportedly repelled a separate attack on Latok community.
