Plateau attack claims 20 lives, police launch manhunt for killers

The Plateau State Police Command has confirmed the killing of 20 persons following an attack by armed men on Kawel Community in Mushere District of Bokkos Local Government Area of the state.

The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, has once again raised concerns over the recurring security challenges facing communities in parts of Plateau State.

Confirming the incident in a statement issued on Monday in Jos, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Alfred Alabo, said the assailants stormed the community and carried out the deadly attack before security operatives responded.

According to him, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Emmanuel Adesina Ewah, immediately directed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Bokkos to mobilise personnel to the affected area after receiving a distress call.

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Alabo explained that police operatives, working in collaboration with the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) and other security agencies, engaged the attackers in a gun duel, forcing them to retreat from the community.

The police spokesman disclosed that 18 persons were confirmed dead at the scene, while three others sustained varying degrees of injuries and were rushed to a medical facility for treatment.

“Regrettably, two of the injured victims were later confirmed dead by a medical doctor, bringing the total number of casualties to 20,” he stated.

He added that the remains of the victims had been released to their families for burial after relatives declined requests for autopsies.

The Police Command expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to residents of Bokkos Local Government Area over the tragic incident.

Alabo said the Commissioner of Police assured residents that security agencies would leave no stone unturned in tracking down those responsible for the attack and ensuring they face justice.

As part of measures to prevent further violence, the CP directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations and the Area Commander in Pankshin to relocate to the area and coordinate ongoing security operations.

He further disclosed that additional tactical teams and personnel of the Police Mobile Force had been deployed to the affected community and surrounding areas to restore calm and strengthen security presence.

The command also announced the commencement of a manhunt for the perpetrators of the attack.

While urging residents to remain calm and continue their lawful activities, the police appealed to members of the public to provide useful information that could assist security agencies in maintaining peace and apprehending those behind the killings.

The latest attack adds to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Plateau State, where communities have witnessed recurring incidents of violence in recent years.

The Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property and assured residents that efforts were ongoing to prevent further attacks in the area.