Five Killed, Two Injured as Gunmen Attack Mining Site in Plateau
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
By Badaru Aliyu
MARIT, BARKIN LADI LGA, PLATEAU STATE — At least five people were reportedly killed and two others sustained severe gunshot injuries when armed assailants attacked a local mining site in Marit village, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, on Saturday afternoon.
The incident has thrown the rural community and surrounding areas into mourning, with residents expressing concern over the continued attacks and insecurity affecting communities in the area.
According to local sources, the victims were at the mining site when the assailants reportedly launched a surprise attack. The attackers allegedly opened fire on people at the location before fleeing the area.
Five people were said to have died from gunshot wounds sustained during the attack, while two others were critically injured and are reportedly receiving medical attention.
The identities of the deceased and injured victims were not immediately available at the time of filing this report.
Residents said the attack has heightened fears among people living and working in the community, particularly those involved in local mining and other economic activities.
Community members and local groups have reportedly expressed frustration over what they described as recurring violence in the area. They called on relevant authorities to strengthen security measures and take steps to prevent further attacks.
The latest incident has also renewed concerns about the safety of residents in rural communities across parts of Plateau State, where violent attacks have periodically affected local populations.
Residents are demanding immediate intervention from security agencies and government authorities, urging them to investigate the attack, identify those responsible and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
Community members also called for proactive security measures around vulnerable settlements and economic sites, particularly mining locations where workers and other residents may be exposed to security threats.
The attack has left families of the victims grieving while the injured continue to receive medical attention.
As of the time of filing this report, there was no official statement available detailing the circumstances surrounding the attack, the identity of the assailants or whether any arrests had been made.
Authorities are expected to provide further information as investigations into the incident continue.
Barkin Ladi is one of the Local Government Areas in Plateau State, North-Central Nigeria. The area comprises rural communities and agricultural and mining activities. Plateau State has experienced recurring communal and security-related violence over the years, prompting repeated calls for stronger protection of vulnerable communities and improved early-warning and response mechanisms.
