Crime

48 Lives Lost in Three Weeks of Violence Across Plateau State Communities

Published by Tope Fakinlede on July 28th, 2025.

48 Lives Lost in Three Weeks of Violence Across Plateau State Communities

A wave of violence has claimed the lives of at least 48 individuals in just three weeks across Riyom, Jos South, and Bokkos local government areas in Plateau State.

Residents and local stakeholders have voiced deep concerns over the rising insecurity, describing the situation as deeply troubling.

On July 10, three herders were reportedly killed while tending their cattle near Nukur village in Jos South LGA. Just four days later, on July 14, gunmen stormed Gwon village in Riyom LGA, killing three farmers in a separate attack.

The most devastating incident occurred on July 15, when armed assailants launched an early-morning assault on Tahoss community in Riyom, leaving 27 people dead and many others injured. Several homes were also set ablaze during the assault.

Tragedy struck again nine days later on the Chirang–Milbakwai road, where gunmen opened fire on a moving vehicle. Fourteen passengers returning from Bokkos market were killed, while three others sustained injuries. The victims, five men and ten women, were all residents of Chirang and Milbakwai communities in Bokkos LGA.

Locals say the recurring violence points to serious lapses in the region’s security infrastructure and has left communities feeling vulnerable and unprotected.