On Wednesday, November 6, 2024, gunmen attacked the Rakwok community in Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State, killing three young men and injuring two others. The attack took place in the morning, around 10 AM, when the gunmen opened fire on the victims who were going about their daily activities. They also shot at other people in the area.
The three young men killed were Chollom Daniel, 27, Jang Joseph, 21, and Richard Dapel, 18. The two others who were injured are currently being treated in the hospital. The violence in the community left many in fear, as gunmen continued their attack on the local population.
The destruction didn’t stop with the killings. Over 100 hectares of farmland, including crops like corn and Asha, were destroyed by the gunmen in the nearby Riyom area. Several communities, such as Jol, Rim, Litton, and Rinyam, saw their farms destroyed. In some cases, crops that had been harvested but not yet threshed were set on fire.
The attacks are suspected to be carried out by Fulani militia, who have been known to destroy farmland and harm local farmers in the region. These continued attacks have left the farmers devastated as their crops, which they had worked hard to grow, were lost in the violence.
Barrister Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, the President of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, expressed deep concern about the attacks. He urged security agencies to take immediate action to stop the violence and protect the people of Plateau State. He also called for compensation for the farmers who lost their crops.
Hon. Pwajok Stephen Gyang, the Executive Chairman of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, visited the Rakwok community to offer condolences to the families of the victims. He condemned the violence and stressed the importance of stronger security measures in the area. He called on the security forces to be more vigilant and take decisive action to prevent further attacks.
The ongoing violence in Plateau State is causing fear and hardship for the local population. Local officials are urging the government and security agencies to act quickly to restore peace and ensure the safety of the people in the region.
