Plateau Police confirm three gunmen killed in Barkin Ladi village

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By Golok Nanmwa

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The Plateau State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of one suspect and the death of three persons following a pre-dawn attack on Pwomol Village in Heipang District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.

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The incident occurred on Monday at about 4:30 a.m when gunmen invaded the community, shooting sporadically and prompting a distress call to security agencies.

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A statement signed by SP Alfred Alabo, the spokesman of the Police command in the state, made available to newsmen, reads that in a swift response, the Commissioner of Police, CP Bassey Ewah, mobilised a joint team of operatives, including the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Barkin Ladi, military personnel and other security agencies.

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The team engaged the attackers in a gun battle, forcing them to flee into the surrounding mountainous forests.

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Police said three persons were killed in the attack while one other sustained injuries and was rushed to hospital for treatment.

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During a follow-up clearance operation, security operatives arrested one suspect identified simply as Suleiman (male) around the Redemption Camp area.

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He was apprehended with visible blood stains on his body and is currently in custody.

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CP Bassey Ewah later visited the scene for an on-the-spot assessment.

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He condoled with the families of the deceased and assured them that a thorough, professional and transparent investigation would be conducted to bring the fleeing suspects to justice.

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The police boss urged residents to remain calm and vigilant, and to report any suspicious movements to the nearest security agency.

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To strengthen security in the area, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has ordered additional deployment of personnel, intensified patrols and enhanced synergy among security agencies.

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The Plateau State Police Command also announced full enforcement of the curfew in the affected area and warned residents to comply strictly to avoid sanctions.

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