At least eight persons have been killed in a late-night attack by gunmen in Mbwelle village, Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State North Central.
The victims, Iliya Mangut Dakus, Luck Titus Dakus, Habila Istifanu Dakus, Hassan Istifanus Dakus, Hassan Moses Dakus, Biggie Lucky Dakus, Sunday Gideon Dakus, and Innocent Barnabas Makwin were all members of the same family, according to reports.
The attack, which occurred at about 11 p.m. on Thursday 9th of April 2026, saw the assailants storm the community and open fire on residents in a sporadic shooting that lasted for nearly an hour. At least three other persons sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical attention, while several others remain unaccounted for.
Chairman of Bokkos Local Government Area, Samuel Amalau, condemned the incident in a statement issued on Friday, describing it as a resurgence of unprovoked violence against innocent citizens.
“I write with a deeply burdened heart to express my profound shock and heartfelt sadness over this senseless act of violence perpetrated by terrorists against innocent and law-abiding citizens,” Amalau said.
He extended condolences to the affected families, describing the killings as a direct assault on humanity and peaceful coexistence. The chairman also urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies by providing timely and useful information that could help prevent further attacks.
Security agencies have yet to issue an official statement on the incident as of the time of filing this report.