Suspected gunmen killed at least 13 people in separate attacks across three local government areas of Plateau State on Sunday night, including nine passengers travelling to Jos, according to local sources and the state government.
Attack on Dungus community claims nine passengers
The deadliest incident occurred at Dungus community in Jos South Local Government Area, where nine passengers travelling to Jos were killed after gunmen opened fire on their vehicle. Rwang Tengwong, spokesman for the Berom Youth Moulders, said the attack happened around 9:40pm.
Among the victims was a member of Operation Rainbow, a local security outfit in the state. Tengwong stated, "Among those killed was a member of Operation Rainbow. It is a very sad development and we lament the loss of lives." He added that some passengers who survived the attack sustained gunshot injuries and were rushed to hospitals, but some later died while receiving treatment.
A resident of the area, Musa Dauda, confirmed the incident, saying some of the injured victims could not survive their injuries. "Some of the passengers who were injured were taken to the hospital, but some of them died while receiving treatment. Others are still in the hospital receiving treatment," Dauda said.
Attacks in Mangu and Riyom add to death toll
In Vodni community, Pushit District, in Mangu Local Government Area, two people were killed during a separate attack, while four others reportedly sustained gunshot injuries and were receiving treatment at a hospital in Mangu town.
In Riyom Local Government Area, two more people were reportedly killed in a separate attack at Tahoos community. The latest attacks have increased concerns among residents of Plateau State, which has continued to experience repeated security challenges linked to violent attacks in some communities.
State government condemns attacks, urges vigilance
The Plateau State Government condemned the attacks and warned residents against taking the law into their own hands. In a statement released by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Lohya Ramnap, the government said it received reports of attacks in Mangu on Saturday, September 12, 2026, and the Dungus Junction incident in Jos South on Sunday, September 13, 2026.
The government described the attacks as "deeply disturbing" and said it was working with security agencies, traditional rulers and community leaders to improve security across the state. It also urged residents in affected communities to remain alert and share useful information with security agencies.
"Government also appeals to citizens, particularly residents of communities affected by insecurity, to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that can assist in preventing attacks and apprehending perpetrators," the statement said.
Security officials and residents gathered at the scene of the attack as investigations into the killings continued. As of the time of filing the report, the Plateau State Police Command and Operation Enduring Peace had not issued official comments on the incidents.
