48 Killed in Three Weeks as Violence Escalates in Plateau State
By Daily Trust Correspondent At least 48 persons have been killed within a span of three weeks in a wave of deadly attacks across Riyom, Jos South, and Bokkos local government areas of Plateau State, sparking widespread concern among residents and stakeholders over worsening insecurity in the region. The spate of violence began on July 10, when three herders were reportedly attacked and killed while rearing cattle around Nukur village in Jos South LGA. Just four days later, on July 14, gunmen stormed Gwon village in Riyom, killing at least three farmers, further heightening tensions in the area. The most devastating incident occurred on July 15, when suspected armed attackers launched an early morning raid on Tahoss community, also in Riyom LGA. Twenty-seven people were killed in the attack, with many others sustaining injuries. Multiple homes were also set ablaze, leaving survivors homeless and traumatized. Barely a week later, on July 24, another attack targeted a moving vehicle along the Chirang–Milbakwai road in Bokkos LGA, killing 14 passengers and injuring three others. The victims, including five men and ten women, were returning from the Bokkos weekly market and were residents of Chirang and Milbakwai communities. Local residents and civil society groups have decried the recurring bloodshed, pointing to serious lapses in security presence and delayed response from authorities. “The situation is deeply worrisome,” one community leader said. “These attacks show that there are major security gaps. Our people no longer feel safe in their homes or even while traveling.” The state has been plagued by intermittent violence, often linked to farmer-herder conflicts, land disputes, and criminal insurgency. While authorities continue to promise stronger action, residents say more must be done to prevent further bloodshed.