Gunmen Attack Plateau Birthday Party, Kill Eight, Injure Several In Late-Night Shooting

A birthday celebration in Plateau State turned into a scene of horror after gunmen stormed a gathering in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area and opened fire on guests, killing at least eight people and injuring several others.

The deadly attack happened around 10 p.m. on Sunday in Gwon-Ajang village, Foron District, where residents had gathered for a social event before the assailants invaded the community.

Witnesses said panic erupted as the attackers began shooting indiscriminately at people attending the birthday celebration, forcing residents to flee in different directions for safety.

A youth leader in the area, Bishop Iliya, said the victims were celebrating with one of their community members when the gunmen suddenly arrived and unleashed terror on the gathering.

“The people were gathered for a birthday celebration when the gunmen arrived and started shooting at everything in sight. It is a painful and unfortunate situation for our community,” he said.

Residents said more than 10 persons sustained injuries during the attack, with many of the victims rushed to nearby hospitals for urgent medical treatment.

The Berom Youths Moulder-Association (BYM-A) also confirmed the incident in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Rwang Tengwong. The group described the attackers as armed terrorists and condemned the continued violence targeting communities in Plateau State.

According to the association, the renewed bloodshed has heightened fear among residents already struggling with recurring attacks across parts of the state. The group called on security agencies to immediately track down those responsible and strengthen protection for vulnerable communities.

Security personnel were later deployed to the affected area following the attack, while local residents continued searching for missing persons and assisting injured victims.

Efforts to get an official reaction from the spokesperson of the Plateau State Police Command, SP Alfred Alabo, were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.

The latest attack adds to growing concerns over insecurity in Plateau State, where communities have continued to experience deadly assaults, killings and violent clashes in recent months.