Tension in Plateau Community After Gunmen Kill Three Vigilantes

Tension has gripped Gassa community in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State after gunmen killed three local vigilantes, including the community’s youth leader, in an overnight attack. The assailants reportedly invaded the community around 1am on Friday and opened fire on the vigilantes, who were on duty protecting residents. A resident, John Dung, said the victims were members of the local vigilante group involved in efforts to safeguard the community from attacks. The killings angered residents, particularly women and youths, who took to the streets and blocked the major road linking Gassa with Mangu. The protesters reportedly demanded improved security and called on soldiers stationed in the area to leave, expressing frustration over repeated attacks despite the presence of security personnel. One of the protesters, Esther Pam, said residents were tired of losing loved ones and urged security agencies to pursue those responsible for the killings.

Confirming the incident, spokesman for the Berom Youth Moulders-Association, BYM, Rwang Tengwong, described the killings as disturbing and said the victims died while protecting their community. He said the vigilantes had played an important role by monitoring the area and responding to security threats, adding that their deaths had increased fear among residents and weakened local security efforts. Tengwong called on security agencies to intensify efforts to identify and arrest the attackers and urged authorities to strengthen protection for communities across Barkin Ladi and other parts of Plateau State. The protest caused significant disruption along the highway, with travellers reportedly stranded for hours as the road was blocked. Security personnel were later deployed to the area to maintain peace and prevent further escalation. Efforts to obtain a response from security operatives before the report was filed were unsuccessful.

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