Miners Rescue Pregnant Woman from Alleged Rape Attempt by Suspected Herdsmen in Plateau State

By Ugbede James

A six-month-pregnant woman narrowly escaped an attempted rape by two individuals suspected to be herdsmen in Jol community, Riyom Local Government Area, Plateau State on Friday.

The victim, identified as Mrs Esther Zakka, was attacked on her way home from Rotchu (Rafin-Acha) to Tarai Hamlet around 3:45 pm yesterday.

According to Barrister Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, the National President of the Berom Youth Movement (BYM), the assailants, believed to be Fulani herdsmen, violently accosted Mrs Zakka, hitting her legs to weaken her resistance.

Fortunately, the commotion caught the attention of local miners nearby, who swiftly responded to her cries for help. They intervened, apprehended one of the suspects, and promptly handed him over to the Operation Rainbow Unit stationed in Jol.

Mrs Zakka, visibly shaken and physically weakened by the ordeal, was immediately transported to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention.

Major Samson Khazom, the spokesperson for Operation Save Haven (OPSH), could not be reached for comment despite repeated attempts.

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation and calls for increased security measures in the region to prevent such atrocities from recurring. Local authorities are conducting thorough investigations into the matter.

The community remains on edge following this disturbing incident, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the area amidst tensions between farmers and herders.

Efforts are ongoing to ensure the safety and well-being of Mrs Esther Zakka, as well as to apprehend any additional suspects involved in the attempted assault.