At least 27 farmers, including men and women, have been killed in a fresh attack by gunmen in Bindi-Jebbu of the Tahoss community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State. The attack, which occurred on Monday, also left many people injured, with several rushed to hospitals, including the Jos University Teaching Hospital and Plateau Hospital.
The chairman of Riyom LGA, Bature Sati Shuwa, acknowledged the incident but could not give the casualty figure as of press time, saying he was on his way to the attacked community. Similarly, security agencies, including Operation Safe Haven and the state police command, have yet to issue any statement on the situation.
The spokespersons of Operation Safe Haven and the state police command, Major Samson Zhakom and DSP Alabo Alfred, respectively, have not responded to the text messages sent to them by our correspondent as of press time.
But the National President of Berom Youth Moulders Association, Dalyop Solomon, confirmed the killings in Jos on Tuesday. According to him, the gunmen, suspected to be members of the Fulani ethnic group, stormed the community, shooting sporadically and setting several houses ablaze.
The ongoing violence in Plateau State has been a significant cause of concern for residents and authorities alike. The state has experienced a series of attacks by gunmen, leading to the loss of lives and destruction of property. The recent attack on Bindi-Jebbu highlights the urgent need for improved security measures to protect the lives and livelihoods of the people in the region.
The Plateau State government and security agencies must work together to identify the perpetrators of these heinous crimes and bring them to justice. Additionally, the government should prioritize the implementation of sustainable solutions to address the root causes of the violence, including land disputes, ethnic tensions, and socio-economic inequalities.
The Plateau State government must also ensure that the affected communities receive the necessary support and assistance to help them recover from the devastating effects of these attacks. This includes providing medical care for the injured, counseling services for the traumatized, and financial support for the families of the victims.
In conclusion, the fresh attack in Plateau State serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing violence and insecurity in the region. The government and security agencies must take immediate and decisive action to protect the lives and property of the people in Plateau State and ensure that such attacks do not occur in the future. It is also crucial to address the underlying issues that fuel these conflicts, such as land disputes and ethnic tensions, to promote lasting peace and stability in the region.
