Fresh tragedy struck Plateau State on Friday, May 8, after gunmen invaded Ngbra Zongo community in Kwall District of Bassa Local Government Area, killing at least 13 residents, including three pregnant women.
Several other persons were reportedly injured during the midnight attack, which threw the community into panic as residents fled for safety.
Attackers Invaded Community at Midnight
Residents said the attackers stormed the community at about midnight while many people were asleep. A community member, Mr Philip Alanga, said the gunmen moved from house to house, shooting indiscriminately and targeting innocent residents.
“They came into the community and started shooting. They moved from one house to another attacking innocent people,” Alanga said.
Pregnant Women Among Victims
Another resident, Mr Chigoji Rocku, disclosed that three pregnant women were among those killed during the attack. The latest killings have heightened fears among residents of Bassa Local Government Area, which has witnessed repeated violent attacks in recent months.
Irigwe Group Condemns Attack
The Secretary General of the Irigwe Development Association (IDA), Mr Danjuma Auta, also confirmed the incident and described the attack as unfortunate and condemnable. Auta lamented the recurring violence affecting communities in Bassa and other parts of Plateau State.
He urged security agencies to intensify efforts to protect vulnerable rural communities from further attacks.
Call for Justice and Stronger Security
The community leader called on security operatives to track down those responsible for the killings and ensure they are brought to justice. He stressed that decisive action against the attackers would help prevent further violence in the area.
As of the time of filing this report, spokespersons for Operation Enduring Peace and the Plateau State Police Command had not responded to enquiries regarding the incident.
Background of Violence in Plateau
Plateau State has experienced repeated violent attacks in recent months, with communities in Bassa Local Government Area particularly affected. The latest attack underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect rural populations.
Residents are calling on the government and security forces to take immediate action to prevent further loss of life and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.
