Gunmen launched an attack on traders from a market in Plateau State, resulting in a fatality confirmed on Monday. The incident occurred on Sunday evening within the Heipang community, located in the Barkin Local Government Area of the state.
Rwang Tengwong, the National Publicity Secretary for the Berom Youths Moulders Association, verified the incident’s details in a statement released on Monday. The attack also led to one individual sustaining a gunshot injury.
Tengwong expressed, “We are deeply saddened by the unfortunate event that unfolded in Heipang District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, on the evening of August 6th, 2023, between 7 and 8 pm. Hoodlums targeted innocent citizens returning from the well-known Kara cattle market. Tragically, Umar Idris lost his life, while another victim is presently undergoing treatment for gunshot wounds at a Barkin Ladi hospital.”
He noted that the community rapidly mobilized its vigilante group, but the assailants were well-armed, and the vigilantes were unable to apprehend them. Tengwong vehemently condemned the unprovoked and reprehensible attack. He emphasized the importance of maintaining peace within their communities and collaborating with the government.
During a security meeting held on Monday, which included the Sector 4 Commander of the Special Task Force, Operation Safe Haven, Col. U.S. Abdulsalam, the entire Heipang community expressed their commitment to aiding the investigation and identifying the culprits. The incident caused confusion among the community, as innocent residents of Heipang were also affected.
Tengwong conveyed their condolences to the deceased’s family and wished for the injured victim’s swift recovery. He concluded with hopes that such a tragic incident would never recur.
Unfortunately, efforts to reach the Plateau State Police Command spokesperson, Alabo Alfred, for comment on the incident were unsuccessful, as his phone was switched off when contacted by our correspondent.
