Gyang Dung Gyang (GDG), an aspirant for the House of Representatives seat representing Jos South/Jos East Federal Constituency under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has strongly condemned the recent deadly attack on artisanal miners in Kuru District, Jos South Local Government Area.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday at a mining site in Kuru, left at least seven young men dead, with several others injured and some reportedly missing.
It could be recalled that Gunmen, had opened fire indiscriminately on the victims, who were engaged in legitimate mining activities to support their families.
The deceased have been identified by community sources and the Berom Youth Moulders-Association (BYM) as including Dung Gyang (19), Weng Dung (26), Francis Paul (23), Samuel Peter (22), Dung Simon (28), Pam Dung (23), and Francis Markus (15). Many of the victims were married with young children, highlighting the devastating impact on local families.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Jos ,Gyang Dung Gyang described the killings as “barbaric, unprovoked, and a direct assault on the peace and economic survival of our communities.”
He expressed deep sorrow over the loss of young, productive lives and extended condolences to the bereaved families, the Berom nation, and the entire people of Jos South.
“The brutal murder of these innocent youths, who were only trying to make out a living through hard work, is unacceptable in any civilized society,” Gyang said.
“This act of terror not only robs families of their loved ones but also undermines efforts to promote economic self-reliance in our region through artisanal mining and other legitimate ventures.”
Gyang Dung Gyang urged security agencies, and other relevant authorities, to swiftly investigate the incident, apprehend the perpetrators, and bring them to justice.
He called for enhanced security measures around mining sites and vulnerable communities to prevent a recurrence of such attacks.
“This is not the first time our people have faced such violence, and it must stop.
“I stand in solidarity with the affected families and the Berom Youth Moulders-Association in their demand for justice and lasting peace.”
The aspirant also appealed to political leaders across party lines to unite in addressing the root causes of insecurity in Plateau State, emphasizing that development and progress can only thrive in a secure environment.
Gyang Dung Gyang, a dedicated PDP stakeholder and community advocate, is campaigning on a platform of unity, good governance, and improved security for Jos South/Jos East constituents ahead of the upcoming elections.