Renewed Violence Hits Plateau: Eight Dead, Many Wounded in Barkin Ladi Attack

At least eight persons have been killed and more than 10 others injured following a deadly attack on Gwom-Ajang village in the Foron District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Residents said the attack occurred late Sunday night when heavily armed gunmen invaded the community and opened fire on villagers gathered for a social event.

According to eyewitness accounts, the victims were attending a birthday celebration when the assailants struck, shooting indiscriminately and causing panic as residents scrambled for safety.

A community youth leader, Bishop Iliya, said the attackers descended on the gathering without warning, leaving behind a trail of death and destruction.

“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.

Sources within the community disclosed that several victims sustained varying degrees of injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals, where they are currently receiving treatment.

The attack has heightened tensions across the area, particularly as it comes after a period of relative calm in parts of Plateau State that have witnessed recurring communal and armed attacks in recent years.

Confirming the incident, the Berom Youths Moulder-Association (BYM-A) condemned the violence and described the attackers as armed terrorists.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Rwang Tengwong, the association said at least eight people lost their lives while several others suffered severe injuries.

The group expressed concern over the resurgence of violence in the area and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to protect vulnerable communities and bring those responsible to justice.

Security personnel were reportedly deployed to the community following the attack, while efforts to obtain official confirmation from the Plateau State Police Command were unsuccessful as of press time.

The latest assault adds to growing concerns over persistent security challenges in Plateau communities, where residents continue to call for stronger government intervention to halt recurring attacks.