One killed, cattle rustled as terrorists strike Plateau community

2026-02-16 - 20:39

By Gilbert Joseph Garga community in the Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State has come under attack by terrorists, leaving one person dead and several cattle rustled. The attack, which multiple sources say occurred on Monday evening, has sparked panic among residents, with many fleeing for safety. It was gathered that the bandits arrived on motorcycles and opened fire on innocent residents. A resident of Garga, Suleiman Dayyabu, who confirmed the development to our correspondent, said cattle were also rustled during the attack. He noted that, “It is true, one person was killed by the bandits and another one injured. He has been rushed to the hospital and we don’t know his fate yet. A team of vigilantes and hunters are currently chasing the bandits.” Messages sent on diverse social media platforms called for urgent security intervention. The message reads, “It is with a heavy heart and deep concern that we raise this urgent alarm to security agencies, government authorities, and all relevant stakeholders. “Garga town is currently under attack by bandits this evening, Monday, 16th February 2026. Reports from residents indicate that armed attackers stormed the community, shooting sporadically and causing panic among innocent citizens, forcing many to flee for safety. “We hereby make an urgent appeal to all security agencies, the Nigerian Army, Police, Civil Defence, and other security formations, as well as local vigilantes and hunters in neighbouring communities to immediately mobilize and come to the rescue of Garga town to prevent further loss of lives and restore calm...” Dayyabu called on the government to be alert and respond to such incidents early enough, rather than allow them to happen. According to him, “I understand three security vehicles have arrived Garga to respond to the attack. But government and security agencies could have been more proactive rather than reacting to the attack after it had occurred. This is the situation we are faced with currently.” However, when contacted, the State Police Public Relations Officer, Alfred Alabo said, “I have not been briefed. You are just telling me now, I will find out.” The Nigerian Army last week deployed 300 Special Forces to Plateau State to beef up security in troubled communities.