Eight Feared Dead, Several Injured in Late-Night Attack on Plateau Community
Tragedy struck Gwon-Ajang community in the Foron District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State, after gunmen launched a deadly attack that left at least eight people dead and several others injured.
Residents said the incident occurred on Sunday night when armed men stormed the village during a social gathering attended by community members. The attackers reportedly opened fire without warning, sending guests and nearby residents scrambling for safety.
According to local sources, the gathering was organised to celebrate the birthday of a young member of the community. What began as a peaceful event quickly turned chaotic as gunshots rang out across the area.
A community youth, Bishop Iliya, recounted that the assailants targeted people indiscriminately, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries. He described the attack as devastating and expressed concern over the continued insecurity affecting communities across Plateau State.
He called on security agencies to strengthen protective measures and prevent further attacks on vulnerable settlements.
The incident was also confirmed by the Berom Youths Moulder-Association (BYM-A), which condemned the violence and described the perpetrators as terrorists. In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Rwang Tengwong, the group said more than 10 people sustained serious injuries during the assault and were taken to medical facilities for treatment.
The association urged security authorities to intensify efforts to identify and prosecute those responsible, warning that repeated attacks continue to threaten peace and stability in the area.
Following the incident, security personnel were reportedly deployed to the community to restore calm and prevent further violence. Injured victims were evacuated to nearby hospitals, where they are receiving medical attention.
Attempts to obtain an official reaction from the Plateau State Police Command were unsuccessful, as calls to the command’s spokesperson, SP Alfred Alabo, were not answered at the time of filing this report.
