Fresh violence has claimed another life in Plateau State after gunmen reportedly killed a former councillor, Daniel Danjuma Chong, popularly known as “Hon. Star,” during a late-night attack on Torok Village in Riyom Local Government Area.
The attack occurred at about 11:45 p.m. on Sunday in Rim Community, sending residents into panic as heavy gunfire forced many to flee their homes in search of safety.
A resident of the community, Cynitha Dung, said the sound of sustained gunshots created widespread fear, with residents remaining indoors until the shooting stopped. She explained that the former councillor was later found with fatal gunshot wounds.
“We heard heavy gunshots late in the night. Everyone ran for safety. By the time people came out, Hon. Daniel had been shot. It was a terrifying experience, and the community is still in shock,” she said.
Another resident, David Danjuma, also sustained gunshot injuries during the attack and is currently receiving medical treatment.
Reacting to the incident, the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM) condemned the killing, describing it as another tragic assault on innocent residents of Riyom Local Government Area. In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Rwang Tengwong, the association said the attackers invaded the community under the cover of darkness, opened fire and escaped before security operatives arrived.
The association extended its condolences to the family of the deceased and the people of Torok Community while wishing the injured victim a speedy recovery. It also called on security agencies and the Plateau State Government to immediately track down those responsible and strengthen security in vulnerable communities across the local government area.
Beyond demanding justice, the BYM urged authorities to dismantle criminal hideouts allegedly operating within the area and renewed its call for a ban on open grazing, arguing that criminal elements have continued to exploit the practice to launch attacks on communities.
As of the time of filing this report, the Plateau State Police Command had not officially confirmed the incident. Attempts to reach the command’s spokesperson, SP Alfred Alabo, for comments were unsuccessful.
