Gunmen suspected to be bandits have killed three youths from the Duduguru community in Obi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State and carted away their motorcycle.

Sources said the incident occurred on Monday along the Itsiga road in Doma Local Government Area.

The victims included Prince James Delle Iwala, son of the late Zhe Duglu, HRH Chief Jonathan Gule Iwala, a respected traditional ruler of the Migili ethnic group who died in March 2024.

The trio were reportedly travelling to a neighbouring community for a condolence visit when they were ambushed and killed by the suspected bandits.

The incident has sparked outrage among youths in the area, with some calling for external intervention to tackle the persistent insecurity. They alleged that Nasarawa State has become a hideout for bandits fleeing intensified military operations in neighbouring states.

The Nasarawa State Government has repeatedly warned criminal groups to desist from violent activities or face decisive action from security agencies.

Meanwhile, the Nasarawa State Government has called for calm following the attack on Sarkin Noma community in the Keana Local Government Area of the state, which caused the loss of lives.

The government tasked the security operatives to, as a matter of urgency, fish out and bring the perpetrators to justice.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Abdullahi Sule on Public Affairs, Peter Ahemba, and obtained by our correspondent in Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State.

According to the statement, the government would not stand idly by and allow criminal elements to disrupt the state’s peace and security.

Ahemba, however, explained that the government is aware of the gradual infiltration of bad elements into the state and is working closely with security agencies to decisively deal with any emerging security threats.

He, therefore, reiterated the administration’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of citizens, calling on the residents to report any suspicious activities or persons to security agencies for prompt action.

“We wish to stress that the state government will not allow enemies of peace to succeed in their evil acts against peace-loving citizens. No effort will be spared to sustain the relative peace achieved by the Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule-led government over the years,” he stated.

Ahemba strongly condemned the midnight attack on residents of Sarkin Noma and similar incidents in the area, disclosing that security agencies have been directed to ensure the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible.

“Furthermore, residents are assured that the state government is working closely with security agencies and relevant stakeholders to implement enhanced security measures to address the situation. Citizens are urged to assist security agencies with useful information that could lead to the arrest of criminals across the state,” he added. (THE GUARDIAN)