One person has been reported dead after unknown gunmen attacked some traders in Heipang community, Barkin Local Government Area, Plateau State.
According to The PUNCH, the National Publicity Secretary for the Berom Youths Moulders Association, Rwang Tengwong, stated that the incident occurred on Monday evening.
He also revealed that another person also sustained gunshot injury during the attack.
Tengwong said, “The attention of the leadership of the Berom Youth Moulder-Association has been drawn to an unfortunate incident that happened around Heipang District in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area on Sunday 06/08/2023 between the hours of 7 and 8pm.
“The act of criminality where some hoodlums attacked innocent citizens who were returning from the popular Kara cattle market.
“As a result, one Umar Idris was killed while the other victim is said to have sustained gunshot injury and is currently receiving treatment in a hospital in Barkin Ladi.
“It was also gathered that the community immediately organised its vigilante group who went to the spot where the shooting took place and the hoodlums escaped through the Potato Value Chain Market recently built by the immediate past administration.
“The Vigilante members could not engage further as the attackers were well armed.”
Tengwong, in condemning the attack, said the killers’ actions were unprovoked and unacceptable, especially at a time when people were putting the past behind them and working with the government to establish lasting peace.
According to him, “From reports gathered, a security meeting today (Monday) between the Sector 4 Commander of the Special Task Force, Operation Safe Haven, Col. U.S. Abdulsalam, youths and stakeholders in Heipang, the entire community was also thrown into confusion when the incident happened as innocent persons from Heipang are also among road users.
“The community expressed its commitment during the meeting to support security personnel in its investigation to identify the perpetrators regardless of who they are.
“We condole with the family of the deceased and pray that God grant him eternal rest.
“We equally pray for speedy recovery for the injured and pray that the ugly incident will never repeat itself.”
The Plateau State Police Command is yet to confirm the incident, attempts to contact the Plateau State Police Command, Alabo Alfred, proved abortive as his line was switched off when contacted.
