Two Miners Killed in Plateau Attack as Troops Rescue Three Kidnap Victims

Two local miners have been killed in an attack at Gangare community in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, raising fresh concerns over the safety of miners and residents in rural communities.

The incident occurred on Wednesday night, leaving residents in grief amid renewed security concerns in parts of the state.

Confirming the attack, spokesman for the Berom Youth Moulders-Association (BYM), Rwang Tengwong, described the incident as sad and unfortunate.

Tengwong said the two victims were carrying out their mining activities when they were killed.

“This is sad. We urge security operatives to investigate the incident, go after those responsible and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to book,” he said.

Meanwhile, troops of Sector 5, Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), Bokkos, have foiled a kidnap attempt and rescued three victims along Sha-Daffo Road in Daffo District of Bokkos Local Government Area.

The operation was carried out at about 9:40 p.m. on September 22 after troops received a distress report about suspected kidnapping activities along the route.

According to OPEP spokesman, Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, the troops responded swiftly, forcing the suspected kidnappers to abandon their operation and flee into the surrounding area.

The rescued victims were identified as 42-year-old Haruna Rabiu, 25-year-old Mary Joseph and 29-year-old Bridget Gideon. They reportedly sustained minor injuries and were evacuated to a hospital for medical treatment.

Oteh said troops had continued to take deliberate steps to deny criminal elements freedom of action within the OPEP Joint Operations Area.

He appealed to residents to remain calm and provide security agencies with timely information, adding that security forces had commenced efforts to track and apprehend the fleeing suspects.

“The operation is part of ongoing efforts by troops under OPEP to disrupt criminal activities and protect communities and road users across Plateau State,” Oteh said.