Three women have been killed and another person injured after gunmen attacked a mining site in Rakum community, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The attack reportedly occurred on Monday at about 4:30 p.m., when the assailants stormed the mining site and opened fire on people working there before fleeing the area.

Three Women Killed in Mining Site Attack

The spokesman for the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Rwang Tengwong, confirmed the incident to The PUNCHin Jos.

Tengwong said three women were killed while another person sustained injuries during the attack.

He expressed concern over the safety of residents and workers in the area, urging security agencies to immediately track down those responsible for the killings and bring them to justice.

A community member, John Silas, also confirmed the incident, saying the attackers arrived at the mining site and opened fire on those present.

Silas said the attack had increased concerns among residents, particularly over the safety of people who depend on mining and other legitimate activities for their livelihoods.

Attack Raises Fresh Security Concerns in Plateau

The latest attack occurred amid a series of deadly incidents reported in parts of Plateau State, particularly Barkin Ladi, Mangu, Riyom and Bokkos local government areas.

The state government recently imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Barkin Ladi, Bokkos and Mangu following renewed security concerns in the affected communities.

Despite the restrictions, several attacks have continued to be reported in different parts of the state.

In a separate incident reported on September 27, gunmen allegedly ambushed miners at a mining site in Marit village, Barkin Ladi, killing five people and injuring two others, according to community sources.

The latest attack at Rakum therefore adds to concerns over the safety of mining communities and other residents in the area.

Police Yet to Comment

As of the time The PUNCH filed its report, the Plateau State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the latest attack.

Attempts to reach the command’s spokesperson, Alabo Alfred, for comments were reportedly unsuccessful.

The identities of the attackers and their motive had also not been established.

Meanwhile, community representatives have called for increased security presence in the area and the apprehension of those responsible for the attack.

The investigation into the incident is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the killings and identify the perpetrators.