A press statement from the Bokkos Cultural Development Council Vanguard, signed by Chairman Farmasum Fuddang, reports that five youths were killed in a recent attack in Plateau State. The incident occurred on Sunday night as the youths were traveling from Mbar town to Koh village, near Yelwa Nono village.
The statement reveals that the unarmed youths were ambushed by terrorists on motorcycles, who had previously been repelled by the military from surrounding mountains. The group condemned the attack and highlighted that despite prior intelligence about the terrorists’ presence, the security forces arrived too late to prevent the killings.
The Vanguard expressed concerns over the ongoing violence, noting that this attack follows a similar incident on September 3rd, 2024, where eleven youths were killed in Tarangol, Daffo, and Bargesh villages. They suggested that the attacks might be part of a broader strategy to force locals off their land.
The group has called for greater involvement of local community members in security efforts, akin to the civilian joint task force in the northeast and northwest regions. They emphasized the need for collaboration with security forces to improve intelligence and address the threat effectively.
The Bokkos Local Government Council, led by Director of Personnel Management Christy Loyi, confirmed the attack and assured that security measures will be strengthened in the area. The council has also visited the families of the victims to offer support.