At least 40 residents have been killed in a fresh attack on Zike community, Kimakpa, in the Kwall district of Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State.
The assailants struck in the early hours of Monday, unleashing gunfire on unsuspecting villagers, plunging the community into chaos. Many residents who tried to flee were gunned down in the process.
A local leader, Wakili Tongwe, told Channels Television that he and security personnel were on patrol in a nearby community when the attack began.
“Though our team engaged the attackers and repelled them, the damage had already been done,” he said.
“We lost thirty-six people on the spot, and four others later died from their injuries. Several others are currently receiving treatment for gunshot wounds.” he noted.
This latest incident follows closely on the heels of a similar assault in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, which claimed 52 lives just two weeks ago.
Reacting to the latest violence, the Plateau State Government expressed deep sorrow and strong condemnation. Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, described the attack as “one too many” and warned that the escalating violence posed a serious threat to peace in the state.
“It is sad that in less than two weeks after our people were killed in Bokkos, we are faced with another horrific attack in Bassa,” Ramnap said. “This is an attempt to puncture the peace that has gradually returned to the State.”
She urged residents to stay calm and vigilant while assuring them that Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s administration is determined to bring the perpetrators to justice.
“The government will not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone or group found responsible for these heinous acts,” she added, while also warning against retaliatory actions.
As of the time of this report, security agencies in have yet to issue an official statement on the attack.
