At least nine members of a single family, including a two-month-old baby, have been killed in a late-night attack by suspected gunmen in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The tragic incident occurred on Saturday night in Kum and Wereng-Camp communities, where residents said the attackers stormed the area around 11:30 p.m., shooting indiscriminately for over an hour.
Eyewitnesses described the assault as one of the most devastating attacks in recent times, with the gunmen reportedly moving from house to house, unleashing violence on helpless residents.
A community member, who identified himself as Precious Tok, said the attackers came in large numbers and created panic as villagers fled into nearby bushes for safety.
“They were everywhere, shooting without warning. We heard people screaming from their homes. By morning, we returned to a heartbreaking sight—bodies lying around, including nine members of one family. Even a two-month-old baby was killed,” he said.
Another resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, lamented the recurring attacks in the area and called for urgent government intervention.
“We keep burying our loved ones.
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This has become a pattern—attacks at night, deaths by morning. We are exhausted and living in constant fear,” the resident said.
The village head was also reportedly injured during the attack and is currently receiving treatment at a medical facility.
Confirming the incident, a community youth leader said the assailants took advantage of the late hours to strike when residents were asleep, leaving behind widespread destruction and grief.
Security agencies have since been alerted, and personnel have been deployed to the affected communities to restore order. However, many residents remain displaced, fearing further attacks.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
The latest attack has once again raised concerns over the persistent insecurity in parts of Plateau State, with residents urging both state and federal governments to take decisive action to protect lives and property.
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