Bandits kill 8 members of same family in Plateau

Saturday, April 11, 2026 - Eight members of a family, including a pregnant woman, have been k!lled in a late-night attack on Mbwelle village, at Forof Wur District in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State. 

The attackers reportedly stormed the community around 11 p.m. on Thursday, April 9, 2026, unleashing sustained gunfire that lasted close to an hour, leaving homes shattered, families displaced, and several residents unaccounted for. 

Those k!lled in the assault have been identified as Elder Iliya Mangut Dakus, Lucky Titus Dakus, Habila Istifanu Dakus, Hassan Istifanus Dakus, Mrs Hassan Moses Dakus, Biggie Lucky Dakus, Sunday Gideon Dakus, and Innocent Barnabas Makwin. 

At least three others sustained injuries, while search efforts continue for those still missing.

Chairman of Bokkos LGA, Samuel Amalau, expressed profound shock over what he described as a senseless act of violence.

“I write with a deeply burdened heart to express my profound shock and heartfelt sadness over this senseless act of violence perpetrated by terrorists against innocent and law-abiding citizens.” he said

He described the k!llings as “a direct assault on our collective humanity and peaceful coexistence,” while extending condolences to the affected families and wishing the injured a swift recover

Amalau, however, urged residents not to lose faith in security agencies, calling for stronger community collaboration.

“Community vigilance has become more critical now than ever. I call on all residents to remain alert and proactive in safeguarding their neighbourhoods.”

He also cautioned youths against retaliatory actions that could inflame tensions, even as he maintained that government is working with security forces to bring perpetrators to justice.

“The government is working closely with security agencies to ensure that those behind these atrocities are identified and brought to justice. We remain resolute in restoring lasting peace across Bokkos," he added. 

Meanwhile, the Plateau State Police Command confirmed that investigations are ongoing.

Community leaders say the attack has heightened anger and anxiety among residents, with some already calling for protests over what they perceive as delayed security response during the incident.