Berom Youth Association Condemns Plateau Killings, Demands Urgent Security Action
The Berom Youth Moulders-Association (BYM) has issued a strong condemnation of the brutal killing of seven Berom youths at a mining site in Plateau State, calling for immediate government intervention to address escalating security threats. The incident, which occurred in the Kuru community of Jos South Local Government Council, has sparked outrage and renewed concerns over the safety of residents in the region.
Details of the Tragic Incident
On Friday morning, seven miners were brutally murdered by suspected armed bandits at a mining site in the Kuru District axis of Plateau State. The victims, identified as Dung Gyang (19 years), Weng Dung (26 years), Francis Paul (23 years), Samuel Peter (22 years), Dung Simon (28 years), Pam Dung (23 years), and Francis Markus (15 years), were described as peace-loving youths engaged in legitimate livelihood activities. Their deaths have been labeled a gross violation of human life and an assault on the peace and dignity of the Berom people.
This attack follows another tragic event earlier in the week, where two individuals were killed in an ambush by bandits in the Gyel District of the same Jos South Council. The persistence of these coordinated attacks highlights an alarming deterioration in security within Berom land, underscoring the urgent need for firm and sustained intervention from authorities.
BYM's Strong Condemnation and Demands
In a statement released on Friday, the National President of BYM, Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, unequivocally condemned the heinous acts, stressing that the continued slaughter of innocent youths must not be allowed to persist. The association has called on the Plateau State Government, the Federal Government, and security agencies to take immediate action, including:
- Thoroughly investigating the attacks to identify, apprehend, and prosecute the perpetrators and their sponsors.
- Reinforcing security around vulnerable rural communities, mining locations, and access routes.
- Intensifying intelligence gathering and deploying adequate, well-equipped security personnel.
- Adopting proactive, community-based security measures to prevent further loss of life.
Mwantiri emphasized that the protection of the lives and livelihoods of Berom youths is non-negotiable, and BYM stands in firm solidarity with the affected families and communities. The association has extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved, praying for comfort and strength during this time of immeasurable grief.
Security Context and Official Responses
The killings occur against a backdrop of heightened security concerns in Plateau State. Mining activities have reportedly shifted to nighttime operations, running from 12 midnight to 6:00 am daily, due to safety fears. Earlier in the week, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, visited the state and assured residents of the troops' combat readiness to maintain peace and stability.
However, responses from security officials have been mixed. The Spokesman of the Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) of the Special Task Force in Jos, Major Samson Zhakom, has reportedly left for Jaji, while the Acting Director of Army Public Relations for the 3 Division, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, has been transferred. Attempts to reach the State Police Command's Spokesman, Superintendent of Police Alfred Alabo, were unsuccessful as calls were cut on several occasions.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, a senior military officer disclosed that the army is aware of the situation and has taken necessary actions to forestall further attacks. The officer assured that such unfortunate incidents would not recur and urged the public to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities.
The BYM's call for accountability and enhanced security measures reflects growing frustration over the persistent violence in Plateau State, with communities demanding more effective protection from authorities to safeguard lives and livelihoods.
