Clarion Newschannel Exclusive Report – December 19, 2025
In yet another grim reminder of Nigeria’s escalating insecurity, armed gunmen stormed a mining site in Ratoso (also known as Atoso) community, Fan District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area in Plateau State, killing at least 12 artisanal miners on Tuesday night, December 16, 2025.
Eyewitness accounts and community leaders report that the attackers, suspected to be Fulani militias and arriving in large numbers, struck around 9:30 p.m. while the miners – mostly young men – were engaged in legal night mining activities. The gunmen opened indiscriminate fire, catching the victims off guard and leaving little chance for escape. In addition to the 12 confirmed deaths, five miners were injured and rushed to nearby hospitals, while three others were abducted and taken away on motorcycles.
The National President of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Barrister Solomon Dalyop Mwantiri, condemned the “unprovoked” assault, describing it as part of a pattern of violence plaguing Berom communities. He highlighted early warnings issued this month about potential attacks on Plateau villages ahead of and during the Christmas season, noting that four communities had been hit simultaneously just last week.
Community sources, including the Berom Educational and Cultural Organisation (BECO), confirmed the casualties and expressed deep anguish over the fate of the abducted miners. Many residents fled into the bush during the chaos, with some still unaccounted for as of Wednesday.
Plateau State Police Command spokesperson, SP Alfred Alabo, confirmed the incident, stating that the Divisional Police Officer and his team were actively in the area, collaborating with the community to pursue the perpetrators and secure the release of the abducted victims.
This latest bloodshed underscores the persistent volatility in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region, where ethnic, religious, and resource-based tensions – particularly between farmers and herders – continue to fuel deadly clashes despite repeated government pledges for peace.
The tragedy coincides with nationwide outrage over insecurity. On Wednesday, December 17, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) staged peaceful protests across multiple states, including Abuja, Kano, Enugu, Ekiti, Bauchi, and others. Led by NLC President Joe Ajaero, demonstrators demanded urgent government action to arrest and prosecute sponsors of violence, reclaim occupied communities, and restore public confidence.
Protesters blamed socio-economic injustices, inequality, corruption, and inadequate funding for education and health for exacerbating insecurity. The NLC highlighted the devastating economic toll, including billions lost during recent health sector strikes, and called for decisive measures to protect workers and citizens.
Following the protests, NLC leaders met with President Bola Tinubu, who acknowledged the challenges but assured ongoing efforts to address them.
As Nigeria grapples with banditry, kidnappings, and communal violence, community leaders warn that without sustained intervention, such attacks will persist, deepening fear and instability across the nation.
Clarion Newschannel continues to monitor developments in Plateau State and the broader security situation. Stay tuned for updates on investigations and responses from authorities.
Bloodbath in Plateau: Gunmen Slaughter 12 Miners, Abduct Others in Brutal Night Attack
