Plateau State authorities have confirmed a deadly pre-dawn attack on Pwomol Village in Heipang District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, leaving three people dead and one suspect in custody.
The attack occurred around 4:30 a.m. on Monday, when gunmen stormed the community, firing indiscriminately and prompting residents to alert security agencies.
According to a statement by SP Alfred Alabo, spokesman for the Plateau State Police Command, Commissioner of Police Bassey Ewah quickly mobilised a joint security team comprising local police, military personnel, and other agencies. The team engaged the attackers in a gunfight, forcing them to flee into nearby mountainous forests.
Police confirmed that three residents were killed, while another sustained injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. During subsequent operations, security operatives arrested a suspect identified as Suleiman near the Redemption Camp area. He was found with visible blood stains and is currently in custody.
CP Ewah visited the village for an on-the-spot assessment, consoling the families of the deceased and assuring them of a thorough, transparent investigation to apprehend the fleeing gunmen. He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest security post.
To strengthen security in Barkin Ladi, Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu has ordered additional deployments, intensified patrols, and enhanced coordination among security agencies. The Plateau State Police Command also announced the full enforcement of a curfew in the affected area, warning residents that violations would attract sanctions.
The attack underscores ongoing security challenges in parts of Plateau State, where sporadic violence has threatened the safety of communities in remote areas. Authorities continue to urge calm as investigations proceed.
