Two feared dead in late-night attack at Plateau mining site

Two people are feared dead after suspected gunmen opened fire at a mining site near Kuru Jenta, on the boundary between Jos South and Barkin Ladi local government areas of Plateau State, community sources said. The incident reportedly occurred at about 11.30pm on Friday while people were working at the site. Weng Bulus, a member of the affected community, told The PUNCH in Jos on Saturday that the two victims were from Heipang District.

“Two persons from Heipang District were shot dead by suspected gunmen at the mining site around Kuru Jenta last night,” Bulus said. The account had not been independently confirmed by the police at the time of publication. Bulus condemned the reported killings and urged residents to avoid mining operations at night.

He said the victims had been at the site during a curfew imposed by the state government, and warned that movements during restricted hours could expose residents to security risks. He called on residents to remain vigilant and comply with the curfew. The warning was directed particularly at miners who continue to operate after dark.

Rwang Tengwong, spokesman for the Berom Youth Moulders Association, also condemned the attack and called on security agencies to investigate. He urged authorities to identify those responsible and bring them to justice. Tengwong likewise advised residents, especially miners, to stop night operations.

The PUNCH said efforts to reach Plateau State Police Command spokesman Alabo Alfred for confirmation were unsuccessful, as his telephone was switched off. The source material contains no information on arrests, the motive for the attack or the identities of the suspected gunmen. It also does not report whether any official investigation had begun.