Gunmen Kill Pregnant Woman, Youth in Fresh Plateau Attack

Fresh violence has struck Plateau State as gunmen launched a deadly attack on Dyan community in Rim Village, Riyom Local Government Area, killing a pregnant woman and a young man in a late-night assault that has further heightened concerns over insecurity in the area.

According to community sources, the attackers stormed the village at about 10 p.m. on Friday and began shooting indiscriminately, sending residents fleeing for safety as panic spread across the community.

The victims of the attack were identified as 32-year-old Mrs. Happiness Pam, who was reportedly pregnant at the time of her death, and 24-year-old Daniel Luka.

Residents said the gunmen operated for some time before fleeing, leaving behind grief and devastation among families and members of the community.

The latest killings have drawn condemnation from the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), which described the incident as a tragic and senseless act of violence against innocent civilians.

In a statement issued on Saturday by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Rwang Tengwong, the association said it received news of the attack with deep shock and sadness, noting that communities in Riyom and other parts of Plateau State have continued to suffer recurring security threats.

“It is heartbreaking that a pregnant woman carrying the hope of a family and an innocent young man with a promising future became victims of yet another senseless act of violence. These killings represent not only an attack on individuals but also an assault on the collective peace, security and humanity of our people,” the statement said.

The group lamented the persistent loss of lives in rural communities and urged authorities to take decisive action to halt the cycle of violence affecting residents.

BYM also extended its condolences to the bereaved families, the people of Dyan community, residents of Rim Village, and the entire Riyom Local Government Area over the tragic loss.

The association called on security agencies to intensify efforts to track down those responsible for the attack and ensure they are arrested and prosecuted.

It further appealed to both the Federal Government and the Plateau State Government to strengthen security measures in vulnerable communities, arguing that residents should not be left to live under constant fear of attacks.

The latest incident adds to a series of violent attacks that have plagued parts of Plateau State in recent years, resulting in deaths, displacement of residents, destruction of property, and growing concerns over the safety of rural communities.

As residents mourn the victims, community leaders and stakeholders are once again calling for urgent and sustained security interventions to prevent further bloodshed and restore peace to affected areas.