Suspected gunmen kill five in Plateau market attack
Gunmen attacked a vegetable market in the Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State on Friday night, resulting in the deaths of five individuals and injuries to several others. The assault occurred around 8:45 p.m. as traders were preparing to close for the day.
A survivor reported that the attackers fired indiscriminately, causing chaos among the traders and customers who fled in various directions. The shooting reportedly lasted approximately 20 minutes, leaving numerous people injured.
“The unfortunate incident created panic in Mangu town. People remained hidden even after the gunmen left,” the survivor stated.
Deacon Bulus Dabit, President of the Mwaghavul Development Association (MDA), confirmed the attack and mentioned that the assailants also targeted vehicles exiting the market. He noted that the identities of the deceased were not immediately known, while several injured individuals were transported to the Jos University Teaching Hospital for treatment.
“The gunmen shot at a vehicle leaving the vegetable market,” Dabit said. “We do not yet have the names of the victims, but many passers-by were injured and are receiving medical care.”
This violence occurred just hours after the MDA expressed concerns over ongoing threats to communities in Mangu, reporting that more than 750 Mwaghavul people have lost their lives since the beginning of 2023.
