At least 12 people have been killed in separate attacks on communities in Plateau State’s Riyom and Bassa local government areas amid renewed violence across the state.
The attacks reportedly occurred between the late hours of May 8 and the early hours of May 9, heightening tensions in communities already grappling with reprisal killings and insecurity.
According to security sources quoted by Zagazola Makama, three persons were killed after suspected militia members attacked Gwa Rim village in Riyom at about 11pm on Thursday.
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), who had earlier been deployed to Angwan Wereng following security threat alerts, reportedly responded after receiving distress calls over gunfire in the area.
Security personnel were said to have discovered three residents dead on arrival after the attackers fled upon sighting advancing troops.
The victims were identified as Alpha David, Matthew Solomon and Timothy Dachung.
Troops later launched operations to pursue the fleeing attackers and secure the area against further violence.
Sources also disclosed that tension rose in the community after some youths resisted efforts by security operatives to evacuate the bodies to a mortuary.
In a separate attack, gunmen reportedly killed at least nine persons in Zhe Brazongo village in Bassa.
Security sources said troops received reports of gunshots from the community at about 12:15am on Friday and immediately mobilised to the area.
However, the attackers had reportedly escaped before security operatives arrived.
During search operations, troops allegedly recovered nine bodies bearing gunshot wounds and machete injuries.
Preliminary findings indicated that the attackers stormed the village in large numbers, opened fire on residents and fled through nearby routes.
Several other residents were also said to have sustained injuries during the attack.
Security operatives later took control of the area to prevent further violence and restore calm.
The latest incidents add to a series of violent attacks recorded in parts of Plateau State, particularly in Riyom, Bassa, Barkin Ladi and Mangu LGAs.
Military authorities said troops under Operation Enduring Peace have intensified patrols, rapid response operations and intelligence-led missions across vulnerable communities as efforts continue to contain the worsening security situation.
