Gunmen kill ex-councillor in Plateau community

Tragic Loss in Torok Village

The quiet community of Torok village in Rim, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, was plunged into grief and fear following the brutal killing of Daniel Danjuma Chong, a former councillor popularly known as 'Hon. Star.' The attack, which occurred late Sunday night around 11:45 p.m., saw gunmen storming the community under the cover of darkness, opening fire indiscriminately. Residents, like Mrs. Cynitha Dung, recounted hearing sustained gunshots that sent everyone fleeing for safety, a terrifying experience that has left the community in shock. Beyond the tragic loss of Chong, another resident, Mr. David Danjuma, sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment, further illustrating the indiscriminate nature of the violence.

Escalating Insecurity in Plateau State

This incident is not an isolated event but rather another disturbing assault in a region frequently plagued by insecurity. Plateau State has, for years, been a flashpoint for communal clashes, banditry, and targeted killings, often attributed to various criminal elements exploiting ethnic and religious tensions. The Berom Youth Moulders-Association (BYM) swiftly condemned the attack, describing it as part of a continuous pattern of violence against innocent residents. Their statement underscores a broader narrative of vulnerability felt by communities in Riyom Local Government Area, where the presence of armed groups and the perceived inadequacy of security responses have fostered an environment of fear and instability. The repeated nature of such attacks suggests a systemic challenge in maintaining law and order and protecting civilian lives.

Urgent Calls for Justice and Protection

In the wake of Chong's killing, the BYM has issued a strong call to action, urging security agencies and the Plateau State Government to launch an immediate and thorough manhunt for the perpetrators. The association emphasized the necessity of bringing those responsible to justice to deter future acts of violence and restore confidence among the populace. Furthermore, the BYM reiterated its demand for strengthened security across vulnerable communities and called for the dismantling of criminal hideouts allegedly operating within the area. A significant point of contention raised by the group is the call for a ban on open grazing, which they argue has been exploited by criminal elements to perpetuate violence. These demands reflect a community's desperate plea for decisive government intervention to address both the immediate threats and the underlying factors contributing to the persistent cycle of violence in Plateau State.