Three members of a local vigilante group were killed after suspected gunmen attacked Sabon-Layi community in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, residents say.
BARKIN LADI, PLATEAU STATE – July 5, 2026
Three members of a local vigilante group have been killed after suspected gunmen attacked Sabon-Layi community in Gwol District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State, in a fresh wave of violence that has heightened security concerns in the area.
The attack reportedly occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, when the assailants stormed the community under the cover of darkness.
According to community sources, the gunmen specifically targeted members of the local vigilante group who were on duty protecting the community from recurring attacks.
The spokesperson of the Berom Youth Moulders (BYM), Mr. Rwang Tengwong, confirmed the incident, describing the killings as a direct assault on community-led efforts to safeguard lives and property.
He said the slain vigilantes were part of a local security arrangement established to protect residents amid persistent insecurity in the area.
"The attackers came and killed these men who were risking their lives to safeguard the community," Tengwong said.
Tengwong lamented the deteriorating security situation in Barkin Ladi, noting that many residents continue to live in fear despite the presence of security personnel.
He appealed to both the Plateau State Government and the Federal Government to strengthen security by deploying additional personnel to vulnerable communities.
According to him, enhanced security measures are necessary to prevent further attacks and reassure residents.
As of the time of filing this report, the Plateau State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the incident.
Efforts by journalists to obtain a reaction from the Police Public Relations Officer, Alfred Alabo, were reportedly unsuccessful.
The latest attack adds to a series of violent incidents recorded in Barkin Ladi and neighbouring communities in recent months, where recurring attacks have claimed lives and displaced residents.
Security agencies are expected to intensify operations in the affected area as investigations into the incident continue.
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