Seven killed, farmlands destroyed in fresh Plateau attacks – The Witness Nigeria

At least seven people have been killed in separate attacks on communities in Plateau State over the past two days, according to the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM).

The attacks also resulted in the deaths of two suspected miners and the destruction of more than 20 hectares of farmland.

In a statement signed by Rwang Tengwong, national publicity secretary of the BYM, the group said the fresh incidents had left families mourning and communities living in fear.

According to the group, Phillip Luka, 25, and Sunday John, 34, were killed on Thursday at a mining site in Kworos Gangare, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area (LGA).

The BYM said farmlands in Jol, Riyom, Exland, Gashish, Rapwomol and Dorowa Babuje were also destroyed on the same day.

It said the destruction had placed the livelihoods and food security of affected families at risk.

Tengwong said two people were killed at Nghar, Exland, in Gashish District, while three others were killed at Gassa, Barkin Ladi.

The three victims at Gassa were identified as Ishaya Pam Dung, 47; Barnabas Gyang Jack, 23; and Manasseh Luka Mushwer, 26.

According to the BYM, the death toll from the separate incidents stands at seven — two miners at Kworos Gangare, two people at Nghar, Exland, and three others at Gassa.

The group said the attacks occurred despite the 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew imposed in Barkin Ladi, Bokkos and Mangu LGAs.

It questioned the effectiveness of the existing security measures and urged security agencies to take immediate steps to prevent further attacks.

Tengwong said authorities should move beyond responding to attacks after they have occurred.

The BYM called for credible intelligence operations to identify and dismantle alleged criminal hideouts and operational enclaves.

It also urged the government to treat the destruction of farmlands as a serious threat to food security.

The group called on the National Assembly, National Human Rights Commission, humanitarian agencies and international organisations to monitor the security and humanitarian situation in Plateau State and support efforts to assist affected farmers.

“Plateau communities have endured enough bloodshed. Citizens have a right to live in their home