A resident of Tanjol community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, identified as Daniel Danladi, has been killed after gunmen suspected to be bandits attacked the area.
The incident sparked outrage among residents, particularly youths and women, who later confronted soldiers deployed to the community, accusing them of failing to protect locals from recurring attacks.
According to security sources cited by security analyst Zagazola Makama in a post on X, the attackers stormed the community on Sunday evening, causing panic among residents.
Troops attached to Sector 6 of Operation Enduring Peace, based in Dakku, were reportedly mobilised after receiving a distress call around 6:18 p.m.
However, security operatives were said to have arrived after the attackers had already fled the area.
The troops later recovered the body of Daniel Danladi, who was allegedly killed during the assault.
Tension reportedly escalated shortly after the soldiers arrived, as some residents accused the troops of allegedly collaborating with Fulani militias operating within the area.
The angry crowd, made up mainly of youths and women, confronted the soldiers, forcing them to withdraw from the community to prevent further violence.
According to the security sources, the troops handled the situation professionally and pulled back strategically to avoid escalation.
The sources added that security personnel responding to attacks in Plateau and other troubled areas often face hostility from locals who believe they have failed to stop repeated killings by armed groups.
They also noted that when troops withdraw to avoid clashes with civilians, they are frequently accused of abandoning affected communities.
Security authorities said efforts were ongoing to restore calm in the area, while security operatives had launched a manhunt for the fleeing attackers.
