At least five persons have been reportedly killed in an attack by armed men at a mining site in Gero Village, Gyel District of Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Sources said that the attackers were armed Fulani assailants who stormed the mining site and opened fire on workers and residents in the area.
The latest attack reportedly occurred hours after an earlier assault on security personnel at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, which led to the deaths of three officers.
Gero Village is said to be located about five kilometres from the NIPSS facility, raising concerns among residents over the proximity of repeated security incidents in the area.
Meanwhile, the unknown gunmen who killed the three officers at NIPSS also escaped with the Inspector’s service pistol as well as two service rifles belonging to the slain soldiers.
Security sources said the attack occurred on June 16 at about 12:10 a.m. when the armed assailants stormed the area and engaged security operatives stationed at the Moderator’s Quarters of the institution.
During the exchange of fire, Inspector Peter Joseph, attached to the B Operations Department at the Force Headquarters in Jos, and two military personnel were killed.
Following the incident, the Divisional Police Officer of Kuru ‘Vom mobilised personnel to the scene alongside military reinforcements, while a coordinated search of surrounding bushes was immediately launched.
Security operatives, including internal security personnel of NIPSS led by the Deputy Commissioner of Operations, are currently combing the area in an effort to track down the attackers and recover the stolen weapons.
The bodies of the deceased officers were evacuated to Ola Hospital, Zawan in Jos South, where they were confirmed dead by a medical doctor before being deposited at the mortuary.
Authorities have since intensified patrols around the institute, with additional security personnel deployed to strengthen protection within and around the facility.
Dr Osime Samuel, Head of NIPSS’ Public Affairs Department said in a statement: “The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, wishes to inform the public that a security incident occurred in the vicinity of the Institute in the early hours of today.
“The situation was promptly brought under control through the swift response of security personnel and relevant security agencies. There is currently no threat to the safety of participants, staff, residents, or facilities of the Institute, and normal activities are continuing as scheduled.
“Security agencies have commenced investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. As investigations are ongoing, it would be premature to speculate on the nature, scope, or outcome of the event. The Institute is therefore unable to confirm details currently circulating on social media and other unofficial platforms.
“NIPSS is working closely with the appropriate authorities and will provide verified information as soon as it becomes available. We urge members of the public and the media to rely on official communications from the Institute and relevant security agencies.
“The Management of NIPSS remains committed to the safety and security of all members of the Institute community and appreciates the professionalism of the security personnel and agencies involved in the response.
“Further updates will be communicated in due course.”
Written with additional reports from Zagazola Makama
