Plateau: Victim killed in fresh Barkin Ladi attack

From Jude Owuamanam, Jos

A man was killed, and more than 50 cows were rustled when gunmen attacked the Duru-Kamang community in the Foron District of the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The victim, identified as Samuel Gwom Tsok, 47, was said to be asleep when, at about 11 p.m., he heard footsteps behind his house.

However, his attempt to see what was happening proved fatal, as he was shot at close range on getting to his backyard.

Unaware at the time, the marauders were allegedly stealing his cows.

Confirming the incident, the National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), Rwang Tengwong, said the latest incident represented yet another disturbing reminder of the persistent security threats facing peaceful communities across Barkin Ladi and other parts of Plateau State.

In a statement he signed, Tengwong said it is unacceptable that law-abiding citizens continue to live in fear while criminal elements unleash violence on them and destroy their means of livelihood.

The statement said, ‘The Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), under the leadership of Barr. Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri strongly condemns the gruesome attack carried out by armed Fulani terrorists on the Duru-Kamang community in the Foron District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area on Thursday night, which resulted in the killing of an innocent citizen and the rustling of livestock.

“The unfortunate incident occurred at about 11 p.m. when the victim, Mr Samuel Gwom Tsok, 47, reportedly noticed suspicious movements behind his residence and stepped out to ascertain what was happening. He was shot dead by the attackers.

“Also, more than 50 cows belonging to the deceased were rustled by the assailants.”

While extending its condolences to the family of the victim, the people of Duru-Kamang, and the entire Foron District over the painful loss, BYM called on them to do everything to defend themselves.

It also urged security agencies to rise to the occasion and defend defenceless citizens.