By Ter Atii | National News

Tragedy struck Tarai community in Jol District of Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State on Tuesday night after suspected gunmen killed three local vigilantes who were on patrol protecting residents.

The victims, identified as Dachung Danjuma, 51, Victor Danjuma, 37, and Nyam Danjuma, 35, were biological brothers from the same family.

Residents said the attack occurred at about 10:47 p.m. when the assailants invaded the community and opened fire on members of the local vigilante group conducting routine night surveillance.

A community resident, Lyop Bitrus, said the brothers were ambushed while carrying out their security duties.

According to him, the attack threw the community into panic as many residents fled their homes for safety.

“They were on duty protecting the community when the gunmen suddenly attacked them. Sadly, the three brothers died on the spot after sacrificing their lives in defence of their people,” he said.

The incident has left the Danjuma family and the wider Tarai community in mourning.

Residents disclosed that Victor Danjuma, one of the victims, was married with five children. His wife and children had reportedly relocated two weeks earlier following attacks on the neighbouring Tan Jol community and were preparing to return home after security conditions appeared to improve.

However, Tuesday night’s attack claimed his life before the family could reunite.

Spokesman of the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), Rwang Tengwong, confirmed the killings, describing them as another painful reminder of the persistent insecurity confronting communities in Riyom and other parts of Plateau State.

He urged security agencies to strengthen protection for vulnerable communities and ensure those behind the attack are arrested and prosecuted.

As of the time of filing this report, security authorities had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.