Plateau State mining site attack leaves three women dead

Gunmen attacked a mining site in the Rakum community of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State, on Monday afternoon. The assailants opened fire on workers between 4:00 pm and 4:30 pm, killing three women and injuring one other person before fleeing the scene.

This incident occurred despite existing security measures in the region, including a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, and Mangu, as well as a state government ban requiring mining operations to cease by 5:00 pm. The timing of the attack, occurring before these restrictions take effect, has raised concerns regarding the efficacy of current security strategies.

Rwang Tengwong, spokesman for the Berom Youth Moulders Association, confirmed the deaths and called for security operatives to apprehend the perpetrators. Community members expressed deep concern over the ability of residents to conduct legitimate business safely amidst the ongoing volatility in the state.