At least 10 people have been feared killed and several others injured after heavily armed gunmen attacked a community in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State on Sunday night.
The attack, which took place in Angwan Rukuba, has once again raised concerns about insecurity in Plateau State, a region that has experienced repeated violent clashes over the years.
Eyewitnesses said the incident happened at about 8 p.m. when more than 20 gunmen stormed Gari Yawaye, a suburb within the Angwan Rukuba area.
Residents said the attackers arrived on motorcycles and immediately began shooting in different directions, causing panic and confusion.
People ran for safety as gunshots echoed across the neighbourhood.
“It was a terrible situation. Everyone was running. We didn’t know where to hide,” one resident said.
The area, known to be home to many students and staff of the University of Jos, was thrown into chaos as the attack disrupted the usually calm environment.
One of the most disturbing parts of the incident, according to eyewitnesses, was that the gunmen were dressed in uniforms similar to those of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.
A local source said the attackers used the disguise to move freely within the community before launching their attack.
“The attackers were dressed in NDLEA uniforms. People did not suspect them at first,” the source explained.
According to him, the gunmen even stopped at a local shop and bought items before suddenly opening fire.
“The shop owner was lucky to escape, but four other people there were killed,” he added.
By the time the attackers left, at least 10 people had lost their lives, while many others were injured either by gunshots or while trying to flee.
Residents also expressed concern over what they described as a delayed response from security agencies.
According to eyewitness accounts, soldiers and other security personnel arrived nearly an hour after the gunmen had already fled the scene.
“The painful part is that security operatives came almost one hour after everything had happened,” another resident said.
The delay has raised fresh questions about response time and the ability of security agencies to prevent such attacks.
Following the incident, the community has been left in mourning, with families grieving the loss of loved ones.
Many injured victims are said to be receiving treatment at nearby hospitals, though details about their condition remain unclear.
Residents say fear now hangs over the area, as people worry that such attacks could happen again.
Some have called for increased security presence, especially because of the proximity of the community to the University of Jos.
Plateau State, particularly areas around Jos, has a long history of violent conflicts. These clashes are often linked to disputes over land, religion, and ethnic differences.
Over the years, several communities have experienced similar attacks, leading to loss of lives and destruction of property.
Despite efforts by the government and security agencies, the problem has persisted, with many residents calling for lasting solutions.
In recent times, there have been renewed concerns about the activities of armed groups operating in rural and semi-urban areas of the state.
The latest attack has once again brought attention to the need for stronger security measures.
Community leaders and residents are calling on both the Plateau State Government and the Federal Government to take urgent steps to protect lives and property.
Some have also urged security agencies to investigate the use of fake uniforms by attackers, warning that such tactics could make it harder for people to trust law enforcement officers.
For residents of Angwan Rukuba and surrounding areas, the attack has disrupted daily life.
Many people are now afraid to go out at night, while businesses have been affected as traders worry about their safety.
Students of the University of Jos living nearby are also said to be on edge, with some considering relocating to safer areas.
Parents and guardians have expressed concern about the safety of their children, especially those living off-campus.
As of the time of this report, security agencies have not released an official statement on the attack or confirmed the number of casualties.
However, residents say they are hoping for swift action to prevent further violence.
For many in Plateau State, the latest incident is a painful reminder of the ongoing security challenges facing the region.
While efforts have been made in the past to restore peace, incidents like this show that much more needs to be done.
As investigations begin, the focus will be on identifying those responsible and ensuring that justice is served.
But for now, the people of Angwan Rukuba are left to mourn their dead and recover from yet another tragic attack.