Eight Killed in Night Raid on Plateau Village

Eight people were killed on Thursday night after armed attackers stormed Mbwelle village in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, opening fire on residents in a late-night assault that also left several others injured and some missing.

Residents said the attackers arrived around 11pm and moved through the community shooting sporadically. The violence, which reportedly lasted for hours, mainly affected one household.

Those confirmed dead include Elder Iliya Mangut Dakus, Luck Titus Dakus, Habila Istifanu Dakus, Hassan Istifanus Dakus, Mrs Hassan Moses Dakus, Biggie Lucky Dakus, Sunday Gideon Dakus, and Innocent Barnabas Makwin.

Community sources said at least three people sustained injuries, while others remain unaccounted for as search efforts continue.

The Chairman of the Community Peace Observers in Bokkos LGA, Kefas Mallai, confirmed the incident, saying the attackers operated without resistance during the incident.

He stated that there was no immediate security response despite the duration of the attack and the proximity of the community to Bokkos town. He also alleged that security personnel were deployed elsewhere at the time.

Youth leader Christopher Luka described the incident as targeted and devastating, noting that a single family appeared to have been heavily affected.

Security agencies had yet to issue an official statement at the time of filing this report. Attempts to reach the Plateau State Police Command spokesperson were unsuccessful, while a military task force representative said feedback would be provided later.

The attack adds to recent waves of violence affecting rural communities across the state, with residents calling for stronger protection and faster response to distress alerts.