Two members of a local vigilante group have been killed by gunmen in Ta-Hoss community, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Residents said the attack occurred around 10 p.m. on Wednesday while the victims were on routine surveillance to safeguard the community against criminal activities.
The deceased, identified as Davou Dalyop Patu, 48, and Dalyop Zaram, 38, were said to be active participants in the community’s security outfit and were widely known for their commitment to protecting residents.
The incident has heightened anxiety among locals, who expressed concerns over the recurring security threats facing communities in Riyom and other parts of the state.
A community leader, Livinus Badung, confirmed the killings and described the victims as dedicated men who made significant sacrifices for the safety of their people.
“They were committed and selfless individuals who devoted their time and energy to protecting the community. Their deaths have left us devastated,” Badung said.
Also reacting, the National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Rwang Tengwong, condemned the attack and extended condolences to the families of the deceased and residents of Ta-Hoss community.
Tengwong called on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure vulnerable communities and ensure that those responsible for the killings are identified and prosecuted.
Efforts to obtain comments from the spokesman for Operation Enduring Peace, Captain Polycarp Oteh, were unsuccessful as he had yet to respond to enquiries as of the time of filing this report.