By Darlington OnedibeÂ
At least 19 people have been confirmed dead and numerous others injured following a brutal, late-night attack by unidentified gunmen on Kawel village in the Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State. ​
The assault, which targeted the Mushere District, has thrown the local community into panic and added to the severe security challenges plaguing the state’s central region. ​
According to local sources, the attackers stormed the peaceful community unexpectedly under the cover of darkness. Eyewitnesses reported that the armed men opened fire indiscriminately on fleeing residents and set multiple houses and properties ablaze. 19 fatalities have been officially confirmed, though community leaders fear the toll could rise as search and rescue operations continue in the surrounding bushes.
Multiple survivors sustaining varying degrees of gunshot wounds and injuries have been rushed to medical facilities in Bokkos and neighboring towns for urgent treatment. ​In the wake of the tragedy, security agencies have deployed personnel to the area to restore order, calm tensions, and prevent potential reprisal attacks.
​As of the time of reporting, no group has claimed responsibility for the killings. State police authorities are expected to release an official statement as preliminary investigations get underway.
