Gunfire during arrest operation sparks panic in Plateau community
Residents of Barkin Ladi Face Panic After Gunfire During Arrest Operation
BARKIN LADI, Plateau State — Residents of Maraban Foron experienced significant fear and confusion Thursday evening when gunshots were reportedly fired during an arrest operation by security personnel.
The incident occurred around 7 p.m., sending community members fleeing for safety as the sound of gunfire echoed through the area. Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with many people running in various directions.
A source later confirmed to Daily Post that the operation involved a joint team of security forces, including members of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). This presence reportedly heightened the atmosphere of panic within the community.
“A few residents sustained injuries while trying to escape the scene,” the source said. “The situation was exacerbated by the fact that the incident coincided with market day, forcing traders to shut their shops and abandon their goods.”
The fear within the community was intensified by recent violent events in nearby Angwan Rukuba, raising concerns about a potential resurgence of attacks. Witness accounts indicated that as soon as the gunfire erupted, panic set in quickly due to earlier incidents in the region.
Rwang Tenglong, the National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Movement, also confirmed the gunfire incident, noting that it caused widespread alarm and left several individuals injured. Tenglong stated that he was unable to determine the specific target of the operation or the identity of anyone who may have been arrested.
At the time of this report, attempts to secure official statements from security agencies had not been successful.
