Gunmen attack Plateau community, kill two as residents flee into bushes

Two people have been confirmed dead and several others injured after gunmen suspected to be Fulani militias launched a late-night attack on the Wereng community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Eyewitnesses told reporters that the assailants, numbering over 100 and armed with sophisticated weapons, stormed the village on Tuesday night, firing indiscriminately at residents. Panic spread as villagers fled into nearby bushes for safety.

One of the victims, identified as Joshua Monday, reportedly died at the scene, while the other succumbed to injuries on the way to the General Hospital in Riyom.

A community source described the attack as “unprovoked and brutal,” adding that the gunmen destroyed property and left many injured before fleeing.

Security operatives, including army personnel, were said to have arrived shortly after the assault to restore calm to the area. However, tension remains high as residents fear a possible reprisal.

Efforts to reach the Plateau State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Alabo Alfred, for confirmation were unsuccessful, as his phone was switched off at the time of filing this report.

Plateau State has witnessed a resurgence of violence in recent months, with several communities in Riyom, Barkin Ladi, and Bassa local government areas suffering repeated attacks linked to long-standing clashes between herders and farming communities.