By Sandra Kenneth
Two persons have been shot dead by suspected gunmen at a mining site around Kuru Jenta, situated near the boundary between Jos South and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau State.
According to community sources, the attack occurred at approximately 11:30 PM on Friday while the victims were actively working at the site.
Speaking on the incident on Saturday, Weng Bulus, a local resident, confirmed that both deceased individuals hailed from the Heipang District in Barkin Ladi LGA.
Bulus strongly condemned the attack while noting that the victims were operating during hours restricted by the state government’s ongoing curfew.
“Two persons from Heipang District were shot dead by suspected gunmen at the mining site around Kuru Jenta last night,” Bulus stated. “The victims were at the site during the period of the curfew. I urge residents to remain vigilant, respect restricted hours, and avoid night mining, as such movements expose people to grave security risks.”
Also reacting to the violence, Rwang Tengwong, spokesperson for the Berom Youth Moulders-Association, denounced the attack and urged security forces to launch an immediate investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice. He similarly advised local miners to cease operations after dark for their own safety.
Efforts to obtain an official statement from the Plateau State Police Command spokesperson, Alabo Alfred, were unsuccessful as his phone was switched off as of press time.
