At least eight people were killed and more than 10 others injured when gunmen attacked a birthday celebration in Gwon-Ajang village, Foron District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Residents said the attackers stormed the community at about 10 p.m. on Sunday and opened fire on guests attending the event, throwing the gathering into chaos as people scrambled for safety.
Witnesses said the victims had assembled to celebrate the birthday of a community member when the gunmen invaded the venue and began shooting indiscriminately.
A youth leader in the area, Bishop Iliya, described the incident as tragic and heartbreaking, saying the attackers targeted unarmed civilians.
“The victims were celebrating with one of their own when the gunmen suddenly arrived and started shooting. Several people were killed while many others sustained injuries. It is a painful experience for our community,” he said.
Iliya called on security agencies to strengthen efforts to protect vulnerable communities in Plateau State, noting that residents have continued to live under the threat of recurring attacks.
The Berom Youths Moulder-Association (BYM-A) also confirmed the incident in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Rwang Tengwong.
The association alleged that armed terrorists were responsible for the attack, stating that at least eight persons lost their lives while more than 10 others suffered serious injuries.
BYM-A expressed concern over the renewed wave of violence in the area and urged security agencies to take decisive action against those behind the killings.
According to the group, the injured victims were evacuated to nearby hospitals for treatment, while security operatives were deployed to the community to maintain order and prevent further attacks.
As of the time of filing this report, the Plateau State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the incident. Efforts to reach the command’s spokesperson, SP Alfred Alabo, for comment were unsuccessful.
