At least 12 people were killed on Tuesday night in a deadly attack at a mining site in Ratoso Fan community, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State. Residents reported that suspected militia stormed the site while miners were at work, opening fire and causing panic. Several others remain unaccounted for as the search continues.

Dagallang Davott, Chairman of the Berom Educational and Cultural Organisation (BECO) and Secretary of the Mining Committee in Barkin Ladi, confirmed the attack to reporters, stating that the number of missing persons is yet to be determined. “The gunmen stormed the mining site and opened fire on the miners. Many fled for their lives, but 12 have so far been confirmed dead,” he said.

A resident of the community, Moses Daniel, described the incident as alarming and emphasized the growing concerns over security in the area. “Yes, it happened. Twelve people were killed last night at a mining site in Ratoso Fan community, my hometown,” Daniel said. He added that the attack has heightened fears about the safety of residents in Plateau’s mining communities.

Authorities have been notified, with the 3rd Division of the Nigerian Army reportedly informed. Aliyu Danja, the division’s spokesman, acknowledged the report and stated that verification is underway.

The attack is part of a series of security challenges facing Plateau State, particularly in rural areas. Just days before the incident, Governor Caleb Mutfwang met with top military officials in Abuja, including the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, and the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), to discuss strategies for enhancing security across the state ahead of the Yuletide season.

Local leaders and residents have called for urgent reinforcement of security measures to protect lives and property, highlighting the vulnerability of mining communities to armed attacks. The government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Nigerian Armed Forces to ensure the safety of Plateau State’s citizens, especially as festive celebrations approach.

Investigations into the attack are ongoing, and authorities are working to locate the missing miners while maintaining vigilance across other high-risk areas in the state.