By By Elizabeth Ugbo
At least 13 people were killed on Friday when suspected gunmen attacked Ngbra Zongo community in Kwall District, Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State. The attackers stormed the area around midnight, opened fire, and used machetes to kill residents. The violence left several others injured and forced many families to flee into nearby bushes for safety.
Midnight Attack Sparks Panic in Bassa LGA
Residents said the attackers invaded the community at about 12 a.m. and moved from house to house. They shot sporadically and attacked people with dangerous weapons. The sudden assault created panic across the entire area.
Mr Philip Alanga, a community member, said the attackers showed no resistance. He explained that they targeted homes and killed innocent residents.
“They came around midnight and started shooting and hacking people,” he said. “They moved from house to house attacking residents.”
Eyewitnesses Report Heavy Casualties
Another resident, Mr Chigoji Rocku, confirmed that three pregnant women died during the attack. He also noted that many others sustained injuries of varying severity.
Survivors said families ran into nearby bushes to escape the violence. Some residents returned later to find destroyed homes and bodies scattered in parts of the community.
Community Leaders Condemn Repeated Violence
The Secretary General of the Irigwe Development Association, Mr Danjuma Auta, described the attack as tragic and unacceptable. He urged security agencies to respond quickly and prevent further killings in rural communities.
Auta also stressed the need for stronger protection in vulnerable areas across Plateau State. He warned that repeated attacks continue to destabilize peaceful communities.
Security Agencies Urged to Act Swiftly
Community leaders and residents called on security operatives to identify and arrest the attackers. They urged authorities to strengthen surveillance in rural settlements, especially in Bassa LGA.
Efforts to reach the spokesperson of the Plateau State Police Command, SP Alfred Alabo, were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
Rising Security Concerns in Plateau Communities
The latest attack adds to growing insecurity concerns in Bassa Local Government Area and other parts of Plateau State. Residents continue to demand stronger military and police presence to prevent further loss of lives.
Authorities have yet to issue an official update on arrests or ongoing investigations.
