Tragedy struck Kawel village in Mushere Chiefdom, Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, as gunmen launched a deadly attack, leaving more than 20 people dead and several others injured.
The assault, which occurred late Sunday night, has also left a serving police officer missing, raising concerns over his fate.
According to reports, the attackers said to be heavily armed and numbering over 100—stormed the community at about 10:30 p.m., when most residents had retired for the night.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that the assailants moved from house to house, attacking unsuspecting victims.
A conflict journalist who confirmed the incident stated that the gunmen overpowered local vigilantes before carrying out the coordinated attack across the village.
Residents described the incident as horrific, with many victims caught off guard in their homes. Others who attempted to flee reportedly sustained gunshot injuries while trying to escape into nearby bushes.
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A community member disclosed that there had been prior security alerts warning of a possible invasion, following suspicious movements around the village.
However, the warnings were allegedly not acted upon by relevant security agencies.
“We notified authorities after noticing unusual gatherings around our community, but no preventive measures were taken.
Sadly, the attackers came and carried out this massacre,” the source said.
Another resident, who lost four family members in the attack, expressed deep anguish, describing the incident as devastating and calling for justice.
As of the time of filing this report, the Plateau State Police Command and the Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), are yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
The attack adds to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Plateau State, with residents calling for urgent government intervention to prevent further loss of lives.
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