The President of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Barrister Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, confirmed the identities of the deceased as Chollom Daniel (27), Jang Joseph (21), and Richard Dapel (18). According to Mwantiri, the attackers fired at the victims, who were carrying out their daily work, and then indiscriminately targeted others in the vicinity. Those injured are currently receiving medical treatment.
Mwantiri expressed grave concern over the increasing attacks, including ambushes, harassment of women, and the intentional destruction of crops by groups suspected to be Fulani militia. Communities in Riyom, like Jol, Rim, Litton, and Rinyam, have faced similar acts of aggression, with widespread crop destruction and deliberate setting of harvested crops ablaze during the night in Ghashishi, Barkin-Ladi. Farmers who once felt secure under military protection have seen their investments vanish in flames.
Appealing to authorities, Mwantiri urged Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) to intervene decisively, stressing the need to prevent the destruction of farmland and reclaim safety for these vulnerable communities. “This continued violence and territorial encroachment on our communities must end,” he said, adding that the Berom people remain committed to peace while supporting the efforts of Plateau’s Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in promoting democratic values.
Hon. Pwajok Stephen Gyang, Executive Chairman of Barkin Ladi LGA, also visited Rakwok to offer condolences, calling for immediate security reinforcements to protect the area from further violence. Recognizing recent gains in local peace efforts, he urged security personnel to strengthen their vigilance to prevent isolated incidents like these. Hon. Pwajok later convened an emergency security meeting, underscoring his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property in Barkin Ladi through proactive measures and early warning systems.
