Reports have emerged of an assault on farmers in Plateau State resulting in injuries to four individuals, believed to be carried out by gunmen suspected to be herders.
The incident occurred when the victims were on their farmland in the Bachi community, Riyom Local Government Area, and were ambushed by the armed attackers.
During an interview with NewsNow in Jos on Wednesday, President of the Berom Youths Moulders Association, Solomon Mwantiri, confirmed the attack and informed that the victims have been taken to the hospital for medical care.
In his statement, Mwantiri mentioned, “Earlier today at approximately 2:00 pm on August 6, 2024, a group of more than 20 well-armed Fulani individuals launched an attack on residents of Lwa in Bachi District, Riyom LGA who were working on their farms near the Seheng area of the village.
“As a result, four individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries, including Caleb Bachen who suffered a fractured hand.”
One of the victims, Caleb Bachen, shared his harrowing experience from his hospital bed, saying, “I was at a separate location when I heard the cries of my fellow farmers seeking help due to the gunfire in the area.
“Not comprehending the situation, I attempted to flee home when some armed assailants armed with machetes and sticks began to brutally attack me despite my pleas.
“I yelled for assistance, and a man named Saddau came to my rescue, saving me from the attackers who numbered more than 15. The exact count may be known by other victims.”
Another victim recounted, “Several months ago, we sought permission from the Fulani community before commencing our farming activities after years of being denied access.
“Last week, the Fulani began threatening us, indicating that we would not be allowed to harvest our crops. While we were tending to our fields, I witnessed over 20 armed Fulani individuals shooting indiscriminately, driving us away from the farmlands. Some of us were beaten and injured by those wielding sticks, with several already receiving medical attention.”
Efforts to reach the Plateau State Command spokesperson, Alabo Alfred, for a statement on the incident were unsuccessful as his mobile phone was switched off when contacted.