The death toll of the attack in Barkin Ladi local government area of Plateau State, where six persons were brutally massacred on Monday by bandits suspected to be terrorists, has risen to seven.
Many people sustained injuries and were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
According to a relation of one of the victims, Joshua Pam, his cousin’s physical injuries were mild, but not know that he sustained a serious internal injury that affected his lungs and ribs.
Pam said that the doctors tried to treat the deceased but to no avail and gave up the ghost, adding that some of the injured patients had been treated and discharged, while others are still receiving treatment.
The gunmen stormed the communities and started shooting sporadically, leaving several people injured.
The Executive Chairman of Barkin Ladi Local Government Council, Stephen Pwajok Gyang, in a statement signed by Mercy Yop Chuwang, his Press Secretary, confirmed the news to journalists.
According to the statement, the council boss condemned the attacks that resulted in the loss of six innocent lives in Marit village and Gashish district.
During a visit to those injured in the attack at the Barkin Ladi General Hospital, Pwajok expressed profound sadness and disappointment over the resurgence of violence in the area, especially when the local government administration is working tirelessly to promote peace and stability.
Pwajok acknowledged the efforts of vigilantes and security agencies in maintaining law and order, while urging them to be more proactive and vigilant in preventing further attacks.
He emphasised that the cycle of violence must be brought to an end and called on all relevant stakeholders, including security agencies, community leaders, and residents, to join hands in promoting peace and security in Barkin Ladi.
He prayed for God’s comfort and peace for the families and communities affected by the attacks.
The council boss admonished the healthcare personnel to urgently attend to the health needs of the survivors of the attack.
