Nine Killed, Several Injured in Fresh Attack on Plateau Community
By: Zagazola Makama
No fewer than nine persons have been killed and several others injured following an attack by suspected militia members on Zhe Brazongo village in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the attack occurred at about 12:15 a.m. on May 8 after troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) received reports of sporadic gunshots from the community.
According to the sources, troops swiftly mobilised to the village following the distress call, but the attackers had already fled before security operatives arrived at the scene.
“During search operations around the village, troops discovered nine corpses of villagers with gunshot wounds and machete cuts,” a military source said.
Preliminary investigation, according to the sources, revealed that the attackers stormed the community in large numbers and opened fire on residents, leaving several persons dead and others injured before escaping through nearby routes.
Security personnel subsequently dominated the general area to prevent further attacks and restore calm to the affected community.
The latest incident is part of renewed violence and reprisal attacks recorded in parts of Plateau State in recent weeks, particularly in Bassa, Riyom, Barkin Ladi and Mangu Local Government Areas.
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have intensified patrols, rapid response operations and intelligence-driven missions across vulnerable communities to contain the deteriorating security situation and prevent further escalation.
