Gunmen ambushed security operatives attached to Operation Rainbow in Plateau State's Bariki Ladi Local Government Area, killing a policeman on Tuesday. The attack occurred along the Gagshi Road in the local government area. A security operative, who wished to remain anonymous, confirmed the incident, stating it happened around 4 pm.
In a separate incident, three civilians were killed at Rakok, also in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. A community leader, Lawrence Gyang, reported that one person and two unidentified women were killed in broad daylight while attending a funeral. The victims were among mourners who had gathered for the funeral when the incident occurred.
The attacks in Plateau State have raised concerns about the security situation, with the President of the Berom Youth Moulders-Association, Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, stating that the incidents are no longer confined to nighttime and are now occurring in broad daylight. Mwantiri narrowly escaped being caught up in the ambush and urged security personnel to continue their efforts to protect lives and property.
The incidents in Plateau State have led to increased tensions in Barkin Ladi and adjoining communities, following a series of attacks in recent days. A dusk-to-dawn curfew was imposed in the area on Monday. Despite the curfew, violence continues to spread, with the death toll rising to four.
In Delta State, three youths were shot dead and five others severely injured during the annual traditional festival of Eku community in Ethiope East local government area. The incident occurred on Monday night, and pictures and videos of the aftermath flooded the internet, causing tension in the community.
Sources within the Urhobo community linked the incident in Delta State to an alleged supremacy dispute between rival groups competing for territorial influence. However, it could not be independently confirmed whether the deceased were members of any group or whether the incident was connected to a cult-related dispute.
The community in Delta State was calm as of press time, although some residents temporarily left the area ahead of the arrival of security personnel. Security operatives moved into the community to restore calm and prevent further violence. The incidents in both Plateau and Delta States have raised concerns about the security situation in Nigeria.
Key points
- A policeman and three civilians were killed in separate incidents in Plateau State.
- Three youths were shot dead in Delta State's Eku community during a traditional festival.
- The incidents have raised concerns about the security situation in Nigeria, with calls for security personnel to continue their efforts to protect lives and property.
