A fresh attack on miners in Plateau State, Nigeria, has resulted in the deaths of five individuals and injuries to two others. The incident occurred on Saturday at approximately 1 p.m. in Marit village, located within the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. According to Rwang Tengwong, National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), the victims were ambushed while engaged in mining activities. This latest attack has exacerbated concerns over the security situation in the region.
This recent incident follows a similar attack that occurred less than 72 hours prior, in which three miners were killed in the Gangare area of Barkin Ladi. The series of attacks has contributed to a heightened sense of unease and fear within the community. The BYM has expressed alarm over the continued violence, despite the imposition of a curfew in Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, and Mangu. The association questions the effectiveness of existing security measures in preventing such attacks.
The National Publicity Secretary of BYM, Rwang Tengwong, emphasized that the victims were not mere statistics but individuals with families and community ties. Their deaths have left a significant impact on the community, with many living in fear. Tengwong also highlighted the destruction of farmlands in various areas, including Jol, Riyom, Exland, Gashish, Rapwomol, and Dorowa Babuje. The destruction of these farmlands poses a serious threat to food security and the livelihoods of affected families.
According to BYM, within a span of two days, at least seven people were killed, and more than 20 hectares of farmland were reportedly destroyed. The association identified some of the victims by name, including Phillip Luka, 25, and Sunday John, 34, who were killed at a mining site in Kworos Gangare, Barkin Ladi. Additionally, Ishaya Pam Dung, 47, Barnabas Gyang Jack, 23, and Manasseh Luka Mushwer, 26, were also killed in separate incidents.
The BYM has called for immediate and decisive action from security agencies to address the ongoing violence. The association demands that authorities use credible intelligence to identify and dismantle criminal hideouts and operational enclaves. They specifically mentioned areas around Fass, Mahanga, the Fulani settlement at Bangai, Lugere, and other locations identified through intelligence. The BYM also urged the government to urgently assess the affected farms and provide support to families who have lost their crops and sources of income.
The destruction of farmlands and the continued attacks have prompted the BYM to seek intervention from various stakeholders. They have called on the National Assembly, National Human Rights Commission, humanitarian agencies, and international organizations to closely monitor the security and humanitarian situation in Plateau State. The association seeks support in protecting civilians, restoring livelihoods, and ensuring accountability for the perpetrators of these attacks.
The recent attacks in Plateau State have raised concerns over the overall security situation in the region. The BYM's demands for action reflect the growing frustration and concern among local communities. As the situation continues to unfold, stakeholders are urged to take decisive action to address the root causes of the violence and ensure the protection of civilians and their livelihoods.
Key points
- Five miners were killed and two injured in a fresh attack in Marit village, Plateau State, Nigeria.
- The attacks have resulted in the destruction of over 20 hectares of farmland, posing a threat to food security.
- The Berom Youth Moulders Association has called for decisive action from security agencies to address the ongoing violence and protect civilians.
