Seven Killed in Plateau New Year Attack

At least seven people have been confirmed dead following a deadly assault on the Bum community in Chugwi, Vwang district of Jos South Local Government Area, Plateau State.

The attack occurred just minutes into the New Year. The Berom Youth Moulder-Association (BYM) said suspected armed bandits assaulted around 11 p.m. on Wednesday as residents were preparing to welcome 2026.

Confirming the incident, BYM National Publicity Secretary Rwang Tengwong said the community was plunged into mourning while others across the state were celebrating.

“While the world was welcoming the New Year in celebration, residents of the Bum community were plunged into grief following a deadly attack on innocent and peace-loving people,” he said.

Tengwong disclosed that seven bodies had so far been recovered, with search and rescue operations still ongoing.

“As of this moment, seven corpses have been recovered, and search efforts continue. There are fears the casualty figure may rise,” he said.

The association noted that the attack occurred despite prior security alerts identifying several communities in Jos South LGA as potential targets.

“Sadly, the Bum community has now fallen victim to this renewed wave of violence,” Tengwong stated. The BYM said the killings have heightened fears over the safety of rural communities in Plateau State, particularly during festive periods meant for peace and celebration.

“This attack adds to the growing list of violent assaults on innocent rural communities in Plateau State and raises serious concerns about the safety of lives and property,” the association added.

The group is closely monitoring the situation and has called for urgent intervention to prevent further loss of lives.

The incident is part of a wider pattern of attacks in Plateau State and the North-Central region. In 2025 alone, several communities suffered deadly assaults:

• In April, gunmen killed at least 51 people in the Zike community, Kimakpa, Bassa district.

• In July, 14 people, including women and children, died in an ambush near Chirang village, Mangor district, Bokkos.

• In December, at least 12 people were killed, three abducted, and five injured during an attack on miners in the Fan community, Barkin Ladi.