Three Armed Militants Killed in Renewed Attacks on Communities in Plateau State
Tension has once again gripped Plateau State following a fresh wave of violence that erupted in parts of the region. Local sources confirmed that at least three suspected armed militias were killed during a coordinated security response to a series of attacks on rural communities.
The attacks reportedly occurred late Monday night in the Mangu Local Government Area, where gunmen believed to be part of an armed militia group launched assaults on several villages. Residents were forced to flee their homes as sporadic gunfire echoed through the night, creating panic among local populations already grappling with previous rounds of violence.
According to Plateau State Police Command spokesperson DSP Alfred Alabo, a swift response by joint security forces—including the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups—led to a confrontation that left three of the attackers dead. “Our men acted quickly upon receiving distress calls. Three of the attackers were neutralized, and the situation has been brought under control,” Alabo stated during a press briefing on Tuesday morning.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and destruction, with homes set ablaze and farmlands vandalized. While casualty figures among residents remain unclear, the police assured the public that efforts are ongoing to secure the affected areas and restore normalcy.
Community leaders have expressed deep concern over the resurgence of attacks, calling on both state and federal authorities to intensify security patrols and address the root causes of the conflict. “We cannot continue to live in fear. The government must act decisively to end this cycle of violence,” said Mr. Jonathan Gyang, a traditional leader in Mangu.
Plateau State has been a flashpoint for inter-communal clashes over the years, often fueled by land disputes, ethnic tensions, and reprisal killings. Despite repeated security deployments, peace remains fragile in several rural districts.
The state government has yet to release an official statement, but sources within the governor’s office hinted at an emergency security meeting being convened to address the situation.
As investigations continue, authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces by reporting any suspicious movements or activities.
