Seven Killed in Plateau State Mining Site Attack

Seven people were killed in a violent attack on a mining site in Kuru, Jos South Local Government Area, Plateau State, on Wednesday night. Several others were reportedly injured in the assault, which has heightened concerns over the safety of artisanal miners in the region.

Emmanuel Solomon, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Artisanal Mining, confirmed the attack and described it as “rather unfortunate,” noting that it follows a series of similar assaults in Jos South. He recalled that two weeks ago, gunmen ambushed another group of miners, killing two and injuring one.

Solomon, who lost his younger brother in the attacks, called for urgent government action, promising that the state will explore measures to provide security for miners. “Some people are just moving about killing innocent people in the state. This situation requires urgent attention,” he said.

Authorities have yet to provide official statements. The Jos South Area Commander of the Nigerian Forest Security Service said he was investigating, while the Plateau State Police spokesperson was unavailable for comment. The incident underscores a growing pattern of attacks on mining communities in Plateau State, prompting calls for stronger security measures.