Plateau: Gunmen kill 6 in Barkin Ladi attack

Gunmen have killed at least six people and injured several others in a fresh attack on Marit and Gashish communities in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The assault, which took place in the early hours of Monday while residents were asleep, has left the affected communities in mourning.

Victims of the attack were given a mass burial later that same day.

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Barkin Ladi LGA, Hon. Stephen Pwajok Gyang, expressed deep concern over the recurring violence in the area.

In a statement released by his Press Secretary, Mercy Yop Chuwang, the council boss condemned the attack and emphasized the need for proactive security measures.

During a visit to the injured at the Barkin Ladi General Hospital, Hon. Pwajok described the attack as a setback to the local government’s efforts to restore peace and stability.

He commended local vigilantes and security agencies for their role so far, but urged them to intensify their efforts to prevent future attacks.

“The cycle of violence must end. We must all work together—security agencies, community leaders, and residents—to ensure peace returns to our communities,” he said.

He also offered prayers for the bereaved families and called on healthcare workers to prioritize the treatment of the injured.

As of the time of filing this report, security agencies, including Operation Safe Haven and the Plateau State Police Command, had not issued official statements on the incident.

This latest attack follows a series of deadly assaults in Bokkos and Bassa LGAs between March and April 2025, where over 100 people were killed.

Reports of cattle shootings and poisoning in Bassa, Riyom, and Mangu LGAs have further fueled tensions in the region.

Authorities are under increasing pressure to find lasting solutions to the violence and protect vulnerable communities across the state.

The Star