Nine Dead in Fresh Plateau Attacks as Gunmen Target Travelers and Worshippers Across Barkin Ladi and Riyom

Fresh security concerns have gripped Plateau State following a violent weekend onslaught that left at least nine people dead across communities in Barkin Ladi and Riyom Local Government Areas.

According to local community sources and youth leaders, the coordinated attacks unfolded in waves between Saturday night and Sunday morning. In the first incident, five travelers heading toward Gana-Ropp in Barkin Ladi were ambushed and killed when gunmen opened fire on their vehicle. The violence spilled into Sunday morning, claiming additional lives—including a local pastor—at Dorowa Babuje as residents made their way to early morning church services. Further casualties were reported following localized assaults at Baten Wereng in Riyom and parts of the Fan District.

The fresh bloodshed has reignited deep anxiety across the region, with community leaders urging security agencies to establish permanent outposts in vulnerable corridors to deter marauding criminal elements.

Meanwhile, the military hierarchy reported a pushback through ongoing operations. The Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace confirmed that troops have intensified cordon-and-search protocols, successfully apprehending suspects linked to separate criminal and kidnapping syndicates in neighboring districts. While security forces maintain an active presence to forestall reprisal actions, residents continue to call for a more robust, preemptive security framework to safeguard rural lives and agricultural livelihoods.