At least three women have been killed and several others injured after gunmen attacked a mining site in Rakum community, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The attackers reportedly stormed the mining site around 4:30pm on Monday and opened fire on workers before fleeing the area.
An eyewitness, John Sabo, told journalists that the assailants were suspected to be Fulani men who emerged from nearby rocks and bushes and opened fire on people engaged in mining activities.
Sabo expressed concern over the attack, saying workers should be able to carry out their legitimate businesses without fear of being attacked.
“We are deeply worried because people should be able to go about their legitimate businesses without being attacked,” he said.
He appealed to security agencies to intensify efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack and prevent further violence in the community.
Confirming the incident, Tengwong, in a statement made available to journalists, said three women were killed while another person sustained injuries during the attack.
“The incident happened at Rakum. Three women were killed, while another person was injured when the attackers stormed the mining site and opened fire,” he said.
Tengwong described the incident as another troubling development that had heightened concerns over the safety of residents and workers in the area.
He called on security operatives to immediately pursue the attackers and ensure that those responsible were arrested and prosecuted.
The latest incident comes amid renewed concerns over violent attacks in parts of Plateau State, particularly in Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Riyom and Bokkos Local Government Areas.
According to Tengwong, the attacks have continued despite the curfew imposed by the state government, raising fresh concerns over the security situation in affected communities.
