Armed bandits have killed 18 residents in a fresh attack on two Plateau communities, deepening concerns over the persistent wave of violence in the North-Central State.
The attackers reportedly stormed two communities in the middle of the night and opened fire on residents, leaving multiple casualties before fleeing the area.
It was gathered that the attack occurred in Kawel and Kopkon communities in Mushere District of Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State during the early hours of Monday at about 1:20 a.m.
Reports indicated that 12 victims were found in Kawel, while six others were recovered in Kopkon, bringing the total death toll to 18.
A security source on Monday said troops deployed under Operation Enduring Peace responded to distress calls and moved into the affected communities shortly after the attack.
However, the assailants reportedly escaped before the troops arrived at the scene.
“Security forces responded swiftly after receiving reports of the attack, but the perpetrators had already fled,” the security source disclosed.
Upon getting to the communities, troops conducting an assessment of the affected areas reportedly recovered 18 bodies, confirming the scale of the tragedy.
Subsequently, the troops launched a manhunt and offensive operations aimed at tracking down and arresting those responsible for the killings.
“The operation is ongoing, and efforts are being intensified to identify and apprehend the attackers,” the security source added.
The Guild reports that the latest killings add to a series of violent incidents that have continued to affect parts of Plateau State, particularly Bokkos and Riyom local government areas, where clashes and attacks have claimed numerous lives in recent months.
Meanwhile, Operation Enduring Peace has stepped up patrols and security deployments across vulnerable communities as authorities seek to curb the recurring violence and restore confidence among residents.