Armed assailants launch assault on Plateau village, lay waste to agricultural land

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By Golok Nanmwa

Gunmen have attacked Ra Kung village in Ropp District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, injuring one person and destroying over 15 hectares of farmland.

Confirming the development, the Berom Youth Moulders-Association, through its National Publicity Secretary, Rwang Tengwong, confirmed the development to journalists in Jos on Friday,

The association said the attackers invaded the community at about 1:00 a.m on Friday.

He said, “The Berom Youth Moulders-Association under the leadership of Barr. Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri strongly condemns the attack carried out on the peaceful people of Rakung village, Ropp District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, in the early hours of Friday.

“As a result of this heinous assault, one person sustained critical injuries and is currently receiving medical attention. In addition, over 15 hectares of farmland cultivated with various cash crops were deliberately destroyed by the attackers.”

The association described the attack as part of a sustained pattern of violence aimed at displacing indigenous communities, destroying their means of livelihood and instilling fear among the people.

It added that the destruction of farmlands at a time when citizens are striving to ensure food security was a direct attack on the economic survival of the affected families and the community at large.

BYM called on security agencies to swiftly apprehend the perpetrators and ensure they are brought to justice.

“It is unacceptable that such acts continue to occur with little or no consequence for those responsible,” the statement added.

The association also urged government at all levels to intensify efforts in protecting vulnerable communities, particularly in Barkin Ladi and other parts of Plateau State, under persistent threat.

It further appealed to humanitarian agencies and relevant authorities to provide immediate support to those affected, especially in the areas of medical care and agricultural recovery.

The group disclosed that in another development, one person was reported missing on Friday morning.