Three vigilantes were reportedly killed on Saturday night when suspected gunmen attacked Sabon-Layi community in Gwol District of Barkin Ladi Local Government area of Plateau State.
The attack, which occurred at about 10 p.m., has heightened concerns over the persistent insecurity in the area.
According to community sources, the assailants stormed the community under the cover of darkness and targeted members of the local vigilante group who were on duty.
The spokesperson for the Berom Youth Moulders, Mr. Rwang Tengwong, confirmed the incident, describing the killings as a direct attack on the community’s efforts to safeguard lives and property.
He said the slain vigilantes were part of a local security arrangement established to protect residents from the recurring attacks that have plagued the area.
Tengwong lamented the worsening security situation in Barkin Ladi, saying residents continue to live in fear despite the presence of security personnel.
“The attackers came and killed these men who were risking their lives to safeguard the community,” he said.
He called on the Plateau State Government and the Federal Government to strengthen security in the area by deploying additional personnel to prevent further attacks.
Efforts to obtain the reaction of the spokesperson for the Plateau State Police Command, Alfred Alabo, were unsuccessful.