Fresh tragedy has struck Plateau State following a deadly attack by suspected gunmen on the Ngbra Zongo community in Kwall District of Bassa Local Government Area, where no fewer than 13 persons were reportedly killed in the early hours of Friday.
The attack, which left several other residents with varying degrees of injuries, threw the community into panic as survivors fled for safety.
A resident, Mr. Philip Alanga, said the assailants stormed the community around midnight, opening fire indiscriminately before attacking residents with machetes and other dangerous weapons.
According to him, the attackers moved from house to house, targeting innocent residents and leaving behind a trail of death and destruction. He added that many residents escaped into nearby bushes to save their lives, while several injured victims were left in urgent need of medical attention.
Confirming the incident, Irigwe Development Association Secretary General, Mr. Danjuma Auta, described the attack as barbaric, tragic, and condemnable.
Auta lamented the recurring attacks on communities in Bassa Local Government Area and other parts of Plateau State, urging security agencies to strengthen surveillance and provide adequate protection for vulnerable rural communities. He also called for the swift arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the killings.
Efforts to obtain an official response from the police were unsuccessful as of press time.
The latest attack comes just days after gunmen invaded the Nding Susut community in Fan District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area on Tuesday night, killing five persons and injuring three others.
Residents said the attackers opened fire on members of a family who were seated outside their home, sparking panic across the community. The renewed violence has heightened fears among residents, with many expressing concern over the increasing frequency of attacks across Plateau communities.
