Gunmen Attack Plateau Bar, Killing Nine and Injuring Three in Late-Night Assault
In a tragic incident that has shocked the region, at least nine people have been confirmed dead and three others seriously injured following a brutal attack by gunmen on a bar in the Dorowa Babuje community. This violent episode occurred in the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State on Sunday night, marking another distressing chapter in the area's security challenges.
Details of the Deadly Bar Attack
The assailants stormed the bar late on Sunday evening, opening fire indiscriminately on patrons and staff. According to eyewitness accounts, the gunmen began shooting sporadically, creating chaos and leaving multiple casualties in their wake. Dauda Sunday, a resident of the Dorowa community, described the harrowing scene to reporters. "I saw several dead bodies lying on the ground, and another victim had already been taken to the hospital. We were going about our normal activities when the gunmen stormed the area and opened fire on those in the bar," he recounted.
The injured victims were swiftly transported to nearby medical facilities for urgent treatment, where they remain hospitalized. Authorities have yet to release official statements regarding the motive behind the attack or the identities of the perpetrators, but local sources indicate that the assault was unprovoked and targeted at civilians enjoying their evening.
Confirmation from Community Leaders
Rwang Tengwong, the National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, confirmed the attacks against members of his community. He provided additional context, revealing that this incident is part of a broader pattern of violence in the region. "An armed group suspected to be Fulani militants ambushed Mr Sunday Darian of Jol Community, Riyom Local Government Area, along the Jol–Sho road," he stated.
This earlier attack occurred on Friday afternoon at approximately 3:11 p.m., as Mr. Darian and a woman were returning from Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. Mr. Darian sustained severe injuries during the ambush and was later pronounced dead at a hospital in Barkin Ladi, highlighting the escalating tensions and security threats faced by residents.
Timeline and Impact of the Violence
The Sunday night bar attack in Dorowa Babuje took place at around 7:27 p.m., resulting in the nine fatalities and three serious injuries. The community has been left in a state of mourning and fear, with many questioning the effectiveness of security measures in the area. The proximity of these incidents—within days of each other—underscores the urgent need for enhanced protection and intervention to prevent further loss of life.
Local authorities and security agencies are expected to launch investigations into both attacks, with hopes of apprehending those responsible and restoring calm to the affected communities. Residents have called for increased patrols and proactive measures to deter future violence, emphasizing the vulnerability of civilians in such remote areas.
