The Berom Youth Moulders-Association (BYM) has faulted the police denial of last Wednesday’s attack at a burial site in Nding Sesut community of Fan District in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The police had initially confirmed the incident in a statement signed by its image maker, SP Fred Alabo, but in another statement described the reports as false and misleading.
But in a statement yesterday, the BYM, under the leadership of Dalyop Mwantiri, said that, “contrary to the impression created in the police statement, there was indeed an attempted attack during the mass burial ceremony at Nding Sesut. Some officials of the association, led by the national president, were physically present at the burial, making this not merely an eyewitness account but a direct experience of those on ground.”
The statement, signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders-Association (BYM), Rwang Tengwong, also faulted the initial police report on the number of victims in last Tuesday’s attack, saying “the number of persons killed in the attack that led to the mass burial at Nding Sesut was seven, not five.”
The statement said: “As seen and heard in videos currently circulating on social media, the attackers attempted to invade the area during the burial proceedings but were successfully repelled through the combined efforts of security personnel present at the venue and local vigilante groups. Three vigilante members sustained injuries during the confrontation and were taken to the hospital for medical attention.
“However, after failing to penetrate the burial gathering, the attackers moved to soft-target communities in Ropp District, specifically Zat and Bet communities. The attack resulted in the killing of two persons in Zat community and the burning of the residence of the community leader.
“Zat community is located close to Saint John Vianney Minor Seminary, Barkin Ladi, a fact that can easily be verified by any interested member of the public.
“These unfortunate incidents are realities experienced by the affected communities and should not be dismissed in a manner that may appear to undermine the pains, fears and losses suffered by innocent citizens.
“The people of Barkin Ladi and surrounding communities continue to seek proactive security measures, sustained surveillance, intelligence gathering and prompt response mechanisms capable of preventing further attacks on vulnerable rural settlements.
“At this critical time, it is important for public communication on security matters to reflect realities on ground with accuracy, balance and sensitivity, while strengthening public confidence and cooperation between security agencies and local communities.
“The protection of lives and property remains a collective responsibility and must continue to receive urgent and sincere attention from all relevant authorities.
“While acknowledging and appreciating the presence and efforts of security personnel at the burial ceremony, it is important to state the facts clearly and accurately for the sake of public record, justice for the victims and the affected communities.”
