Death toll rises to three after gunmen attack Garga Community in Plateau

The death toll from Monday’s attack on Garga community in Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State has risen to three, according to residents.

Eyewitnesses said the assailants stormed the community on motorcycles and opened fire on residents, killing one person instantly while several others sustained gunshot injuries. Some of the injured victims were later confirmed dead, bringing the toll to three. Cattle were also reportedly rustled during the incident.

Residents said the attackers shot sporadically, causing panic as villagers fled for safety. Local vigilantes and hunters were said to have mobilised in pursuit of the gunmen, but not before considerable damage had been done.

The incident has heightened anxiety in the area, with residents calling for increased security deployment to forestall further violence. Concerns have also been raised over the alleged presence of bandits in neighbouring Birbiyang town, less than 15 kilometres from Garga district.

In a widely circulated WhatsApp message, residents appealed to authorities to intervene urgently, alleging that armed men were operating freely in Birbiyang, a federal ward under the Kantana area, without visible security response. They described the recurring attacks in neighbouring communities as painful and unacceptable.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the Plateau State Police Command, Alabo Alfred, said the police were still working to ascertain the full details of the attack.

“We’re still making efforts to get to the root of the matter. After that, we will get back to the public,” he said.

The latest violence underscores ongoing security challenges in parts of Plateau State, as residents continue to seek stronger protection from authorities.