Tension has risen in Gassa community, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, after gunmen killed three vigilantes, including the community’s youth leader, during an early morning attack.

The attackers reportedly stormed the community around 1am on Friday and opened fire on the vigilantes, who were on duty protecting residents.

The victims were said to be members of the local vigilante group involved in efforts to safeguard the community from attacks.A resident, John Dung, told our correspondent that the killings sparked protests by women and youths, who blocked the major highway linking Gassa with Mangu.

The protesters expressed frustration over repeated attacks and called on security personnel stationed in the area to take stronger action against the attackers.

One of the protesters, Mrs Esther Pam, said residents were tired of losing loved ones to attacks and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to protect the community.

Confirming the incident, spokesman for the Berom Youth Moulders-Association, Rwang Tengwong, described the killings as disturbing.

He said the victims were killed while protecting their community and called on security agencies to track down the attackers and bring them to justice.

The protest caused significant traffic disruption, leaving travelers stranded for hours. Security personnel were later deployed to the area to restore calm and prevent further escalation.