Four local vigilantes have been killed after gunmen stormed a community in Plateau State, raising fresh concerns over security in the troubled area.
Gunmen have killed four vigilantes guarding Shurum village in Dorowa Babuje, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, in a late-night attack.
The attackers reportedly struck at about 11:56pm on Friday, 16 October, while the vigilantes were on duty protecting the community, according to a report by Vanguard published on Saturday.
A community member, Bulus Bature, said the victims were keeping watch when the gunmen attacked them.
He expressed sadness over the killings, noting that the victims had volunteered to protect their neighbours but were themselves killed while carrying out the responsibility.
Rwang Tengwong, the National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), also confirmed the incident, saying four people had been killed.
Tengwong condemned the attack and called on security agencies to investigate the killings and bring those responsible to justice.
He warned that residents could not continue living in fear while people volunteering to protect their communities were being targeted.
The association also appealed to the government and security agencies to strengthen security around vulnerable communities in the area.
No official police confirmation
Efforts to reach security operatives for confirmation of the attack were unsuccessful as of the time of the Vanguard report.
The latest killings add to security concerns in Plateau State, where communities have experienced repeated attacks targeting residents and local vigilante groups.
It remains unclear whether the attackers have been identified or whether any arrests have been made.
