20 people were killed by gunmen in the Heipang community of the state’s Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, according to the Plateau State Police Command.
The attack took place early on August 10, 2023, according to command spokeswoman Alfred Alabo, who confirmed the news in a statement issued in Jos.
“On August 10, 2023, at or around 0500 hours, the Plateau State Police Command received information from one Rwang Danjuma of the Heipang District that between 02:00 and 02:30 hours, unidentified gunmen stormed Tagwam Lawuru village where they indiscriminately opened fire and killed 17 people. Following the attack on Tagwam Lawuru village, the hoodlums also went to Layowok Village where they killed 3 people. Several additional people suffered various degrees of gunshot wounds as a result of the attacks, the statement said.
“Upon receiving the information, DPO Barkin Ladi organized a team of police officers and representatives from other security agencies, as well as members of security assistance groups in the State, to strengthen and bring the affected communities’ lives back to normal.
The hospitals to which they were hurriedly transported report that the injured victims are responding to treatment.
According to the PPRO, police officers also freed Gideon Nweke, a victim of kidnapping.
“The command is pleased to inform the public that the DPO Barkin-Ladi and team, while on Patrol, rescued one Gideon Nweke, age 63, of Liberty Boulevards British America Jos, who was abducted along Riyom-Jos Road on the 8th of August 2023 at approximately 21:00 hours in a Plateau Riders Sharon vehicle while traveling from Abuja. The victim was taken to Allah Nakowa Hospital Barkin Ladi for treatment of the injuries sustained during the beating.
“On this note, the police commissioner and the entire staff of the Nigerian Police Force on the Plateau send their deepest sympathies to the affected areas and the families of the victims. We also want to reassure you that we have already put procedures in place to guarantee the capture and subsequent prosecution of those responsible for these cruel deeds.
“The Command is taking this opportunity to issue a strong warning to all criminals and hoodlums, informing them that we will not tolerate any type of criminal activity within the State and that, if caught, they will face severe legal repercussions.
“To the good and peace-loving people of Plateau State, the Command requests that you maintain calm and carry on with your lawful responsibilities as we are committed to ensuring the security of lives and property within the State. “.
Additionally, the statement provided a number of emergency contacts that were linked to the police control room and urged the public to always use those contacts in case of an emergency. Callers should dial 07059473022, 08038907662, 08075391844, and 09053872296.
