By Muhammad Tanko Jos
Four people were reportedly ambushed and killed in Uwok-Ishe community of Kakkek District, Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The killings involved two herders and two farmers in the trouble ridden area of Bassa local government on Saturday.
Two others sustained critical injuries during the attack and were rushed to the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) for urgent medical treatment.
Local sources said the ambush occurred around 7 p.m. on Saturday as the victims were en route to nearby mining sites.
The incident has sparked confusion and tension among residents, especially considering the long-standing conflict between the Irigwe and Fulani communities in Miango District of Bassa.
A residents of the community, Abubakar Abdullahi, while speaking to our correspondent on Sunday confirmed the killings.
“The six victims were riding on two motorcycles—three on each heading to mining sites when they were ambushed. Among them were three Fulani and three Bache (also known as Rukuba), another ethnic group native in Bassa.
“When we heard gunshots, we quickly mobilized, including members of the Rukuba ethnic group, and moved toward the sound. We found four victims already dead, while two others were critically injured and later taken to JUTH for treatment,” he said.
According to Abdullahi, the Fulani and Rukuba (Bache) communities have long coexisted peacefully in the area, engaging in joint business ventures such as mining.
Dauda Aku, Youth President of the Bache ethnic group, confirmed the incident, describing it as tragic.
“By 9 p.m. yesterday, I received a call informing me that some of our members had been killed while on their way to earn a livelihood.
“Two of our members died, and one is currently hospitalized. Three Fulani individuals were also attacked—two were killed, and one survived with injuries,” he stressed.
Aku expressed concern over the rising insecurity in the area, noting that such deadly incidents have become frequent, with little or no action taken by authorities.
As at press time the spokesman of Operation Safe Haven (OPHS), Major Samson Zhakom, did not respond to phone calls and text message sent to him.
