Gunmen have killed two people, injured another and set several houses ablaze in fresh attacks on Berom communities in Plateau State.
The attacks reportedly occurred on Tuesday night across four locations: Gwa-Wereng Rim, Kyeng Village in Bachi District, Dorong and Jol Village.
The Berom Youth Moulders Association confirmed the incidents in a statement issued on Wednesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Rwang Tengwong.
According to the association, gunmen attacked Gwa-Wereng Rim, where Bulus Mwagwong, popularly known as Dikko, was killed. His cousin, Yakubu, was also seriously injured.
The association further reported that 47-year-old Stephen Dachollom Kaze was killed by suspected attackers at Kyeng Village in Bachi District at about 8:30 p.m.
A resident, Lyop Gabriel, said the attack on Gwa-Wereng Rim occurred around 9:30 p.m. when gunmen reportedly entered the community and opened fire on residents.
At Dorong, attackers allegedly set houses on fire, destroying property and forcing residents to flee their homes.
In Jol Village, armed attackers reportedly exchanged gunfire with local vigilantes, increasing tension in the area.
The National President of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, condemned the attacks, describing them as a serious threat to the lives, livelihoods and safety of rural communities.
The association expressed concern over the growing frequency of attacks, particularly against farmers and other residents who depend on their communities and farmlands for their livelihoods.
It called on security agencies to increase their presence in vulnerable communities, strengthen surveillance and ensure that those responsible for the attacks are arrested and prosecuted.
The group also appealed to the Plateau State Government and other relevant authorities to provide urgent assistance to affected families, especially those who lost relatives, homes and other property.
The association expressed condolences to the families of Mwagwong and Kaze and wished Yakubu a speedy recovery.
It urged residents to remain vigilant, peaceful and united, stressing the need for collective efforts to prevent further violence and restore security in the affected communities.
The spokesperson for the Plateau State Police Command, Alabo Alfred, was not immediately available for comment, as his phone was reportedly switched off.
