Gunmen have killed two members of a local vigilante group in Ta-Hoss community, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, in a fresh attack that has heightened fears among residents of the area.
The incident occurred on Wednesday night while the victims were reportedly on routine security duty aimed at safeguarding the community from criminal attacks.
Residents said the assailants struck at about 10 p.m., killing the two vigilantes identified as Davou Dalyop Patu, 48, and Dalyop Zaram, 38.
The deceased were described as active volunteers who played key roles in community security efforts and were widely known for their commitment to protecting residents.
Confirming the incident, a community leader, Livinus Badung, expressed grief over the killings, describing the victims as dedicated men who sacrificed their time and energy for the safety of their people.
He said the attack had left residents in shock and mourning, noting that the community was struggling to cope with the loss of two of its frontline security volunteers.
“Their deaths are a painful loss to the community. They were committed individuals who worked tirelessly to help keep our people safe,” Badung said.
Also reacting to the development, the National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Rwang Tengwong, condemned the attack and sympathised with the families of the deceased as well as members of the Ta-Hoss community.
He called on security agencies to intensify efforts to protect vulnerable communities in the state and ensure that those responsible for the killings are tracked down and prosecuted.
Tengwong lamented the recurring attacks on rural communities and stressed the need for stronger security measures to safeguard lives and property.
As of the time of filing this report, the spokesman for Operation Enduring Peace, Capt. Polycarp Oteh, had yet to respond to inquiries regarding the incident.
The latest attack has further raised concerns over the security situation in parts of Riyom Local Government Area, where communities have continued to grapple with violent assaults and other security threats.