Berom Militia Launch Deadly Attacks on Soldiers in Barkin Ladi as Troops Repel Separate Ambush in Jos South
By Zagazola Makama
A soldier attached to Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) has been seriously injured after coming under attack by suspected armed Berom militia in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State amid escalating violence across parts of the state.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 6:50 p.m. on May 10 at Dorowa Tsoho community in Barkin Ladi LGA.
The sources said the victim, identified as Warrant Officer Rex Okang, was attacked by a group of suspected armed Berom militia while on official duty alongside another soldier within the community.
“He sustained serious injuries during the attack and was immediately evacuated to Barkin Ladi General Hospital for medical attention,” the source said.
The attack came barely hours after troops of Sector 3 and Sector 6 OPEP repelled another ambush by suspected armed Berom militia during a response operation following attacks on herders and cattle in Jos South LGA.
Security sources disclosed that troops had earlier received reports of gunshots around Gero area at about 1:00 p.m. and swiftly mobilised to support personnel already operating within the area.
While attempting to link up with advancing troops, the soldiers reportedly came under coordinated ambush from the armed militia around surrounding hills and mountainous terrain.
Troops, however, responded with superior firepower, forcing the attackers to retreat toward Nyango and Daron communities.
Following the operation, troops confirmed that nine cows were killed while five others sustained gunshot injuries during the attack.
A herder identified as Aliyu Yusuf also sustained gunshot wounds and was rushed for medical treatment.
Sources said troops have sustained pursuit operations across the affected areas to track fleeing suspects and prevent further attacks.
The latest incidents are part of growing attacks targeting both civilians and security personnel across Plateau communities in recent weeks.
Earlier in Mangu LGA, troops deployed to restore order during unrest linked to illegal mining activities also came under deadly attack from Plateau armed youths, leading to the killing of a senior Nigerian Army officer.
Troops later neutralised two attackers during follow-up operations and recovered weapons from the area.
Security officials said troops have intensified fighting patrols, stop-and-search operations and confidence-building patrols across volatile communities in Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Jos South and Mangu LGAs to restore calm and forestall further breakdown of law and order.
The operations covered flashpoints including Jol, Gana Ropp, Kassa Road, Rakung, Katako, Kwok, Dorowa and adjoining communities.
According to military sources, the general security situation remained calm but fluid, while troops remained on maximum alert to respond swiftly to distress calls and emerging threats.
