Fresh tension has gripped the Duru-Kamang community in the Foron District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State after gunmen killed a 47-year-old man and rustled more than 50 cows during a late-night attack.
The victim, identified as Samuel Gwom Tsok, was reportedly shot dead around 11 p.m. on Thursday after stepping out of his house to investigate suspicious movements behind his residence.
Residents said Tsok had been asleep when he noticed unusual footsteps around his compound.
His attempt to confirm what was happening, however, turned tragic as the attackers allegedly opened fire on him at close range.
Sources in the community disclosed that the assailants were stealing cattle belonging to the deceased at the time of the attack.
The incident was confirmed by the National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Rwang Tengwong, who described the attack as another painful reminder of the worsening insecurity confronting communities in Barkin Ladi and other parts of Plateau State.
In a statement signed on behalf of the association’s leadership, Tengwong condemned the killing and the destruction of livelihoods by armed attackers.
According to the statement, the gunmen invaded the community late Thursday night, killing the victim before fleeing with over 50 cows belonging to him.
The association lamented that innocent residents continued to live in fear despite repeated attacks on communities across the state.
While sympathising with the family of the deceased and residents of Duru-Kamang and the entire Foron District, the group called on security agencies to intensify efforts to protect vulnerable communities from recurring violence.
The association also urged residents to remain vigilant and take lawful measures to safeguard their communities against further attacks.