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Five people have lost their lives following a recent assault by gunmen on rural communities located in the Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State. The attack has heightened concerns over the persistent violence affecting these areas, leaving families devastated and the community reeling from the loss.
The disturbing news of the attack was confirmed in a statement on Tuesday by Farmasum Fuddang, the Chairman of the Bokkos Cultural Development Council, alongside Secretary Duwam Bosco. Their remarks highlighted the grave consequences of the violence, underscoring the emotional toll it has taken on the affected communities and the pressing need for action.
According to their statement, the attack occurred on Monday, October 14, prompting officials to express their deep concern over a pattern of violence that has previously resulted in numerous fatalities in the region.
“Despite credible warnings by a reputable media outlet on October 12th, terrorists, identified by witnesses as members of the Fulani tribe, launched a brutal attack on the village of Rafut in the Kwatas district shortly after 7 pm on October 14th, this unprovoked assault occurred even after a security meeting with police and military authorities in Bokkos on October 13th.
“Four young men, who were out guarding their family’s home, were tragically ambushed as they stood watch; the attackers thereafter stormed the compound, killing an elderly man, bringing the total fatalities to five,” the statement read.
The unfortunate incident took place following a week rife with violent clashes, which resulted in the brutal murders of more than ten residents, casting a pall of sorrow over the entire community as they grapple with the aftermath.
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“Five in Wumat on October 7th , four in Kuba on October 10th, one in Maikatako on October 11th, and another on October 12th.”
“Additionally, we have endured numerous assaults in the previous month, including six fatalities in Daffo on September 3rd, two in Tarangol on the same day, five in Mbar on September 16th and two in Kop Mandarken on September 20th 2024,” the statement added.
Recognizing the commendable efforts of security forces in fending off the attackers, the group called for enhanced collaboration with local residents, stressing that such teamwork is essential for the ongoing protection of the community.
“We commend the swift action taken by the military, which resulted in the rescue of Yelwa sunday mashat, who is currently recovering from severe injuries sustained during the attack. we also acknowledge the apprehension of several suspects and large cattle herds they drove into the road to block the victim.
“However, it is with deep regret that we observe the attack on Rafut occurred despite warnings clearly identifying these areas as at risk.”
“More worrisome is the fact that it occurred mere hours after residents of Rafut reached out to police authorities reporting suspicious activity by Fulani groups in the area. similar intelligence was shared shortly after the Wumat attack on October 7th including names of identified suspects, who still roam free,” they said.
