Eight Killed, Scores Injured as Gunmen Attack Plateau Community

Gunmen suspected to be armed herdsmen have killed eight persons and injured scores of others in an attack on Kwagha Village in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The attackers stormed the community on motorcycles around 2 a.m. on Monday, June 1, 2026, opening fire on sleeping residents and causing panic, multiple sources told Vanguard.

A resident, Mr Danjuma Bitrus, recounted the horror: “We were sleeping when we heard gunshots. They came at about 2 am and started shooting everywhere. Many of us ran into the bushes. When we returned, we found eight bodies and many wounded.”

More than 20 injured victims were hospitalised at Bokkos General Hospital and other medical facilities in the area, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), which confirmed it was coordinating with the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to provide relief materials.

The Plateau State Police Command confirmed the incident. The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Alfred Alabo, said in a statement: “Security operatives have been deployed to the area and calm has been restored. We urge residents to go about their lawful activities and report any suspicious movements.”

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang condemned the attack, describing it as “another senseless act of violence.” In a statement by his Director of Press, Gyang Bere, the governor expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and reassured them that the government would not relent in its security efforts.

“Perpetrators of this heinous crime will face the full wrath of the law,” the statement added.

The attack comes amid persistent security challenges in Plateau State, which has seen recurring cycles of communal violence and armed attacks despite government assurances of improved security.

Sources: Vanguard