18 K!lled As Bandits Att∆ck Plateau Communities, Troops Launch Manhunt

18 Killed As Bandits Attack Plateau Communities, Troops Launch Manhunt

Following the attack, troops of Sector 5 under Operation Enduring Peace have launched offensive operations to track down the attackers.

Bandits suspected to be Fulani have killed 18 people in a fresh attack on the Kawel and Kopkon communities in the Mushere District of Bokkos Local Government Area, Plateau State.

Following the attack, troops of Sector 5 under Operation Enduring Peace have launched offensive operations to track down the attackers.

Security analyst and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, citing security sources, said the attack occurred in the early hours of Saturday, June 20, 2026, the latest in a string of violent incidents plaguing communities across parts of Plateau State despite ongoing security deployments.

According to Makama, troops responded to distress calls at around 1:20 a.m. after armed men launched a coordinated assault on the affected communities.

The assailants stormed Kawel and Kopkon villages, opening fire indiscriminately and sending residents fleeing in panic before withdrawing ahead of the arrival of security personnel.

“Upon arrival, troops discovered 12 bodies in Kawel village and six bodies in Kopkon village, bringing the total number of fatalities to 18,” the report said.

According to the sources, the attackers had already escaped by the time security operatives reached the scene.

Following the discovery of the casualties, military personnel immediately commenced operations aimed at locating those responsible for the attack.

Security sources said the operation is continuing across surrounding areas as troops intensify efforts to prevent further attacks and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The latest killings have once again highlighted the fragile security situation in parts of Plateau State, particularly in Bokkos and Riyom local government areas, where violent incidents have persisted despite repeated interventions by security agencies.

Residents of several rural communities have continued to face threats arising from recurring clashes and attacks that have resulted in loss of lives, destruction of property and displacement of families.

In response to the recurring violence, security authorities have maintained an increased operational presence across vulnerable communities.

“Operation Enduring has intensified patrols and security deployments in parts of Plateau State following recurring attacks in some rural communities,” the report said.

As security forces continue their pursuit of the fleeing suspects, residents and community leaders are expected to look to ongoing military operations for assurances that further attacks can be prevented and those responsible held accountable.

The Plateau State Police Public Relations Officer, Alfred Alabo, did not respond to calls or text messages seeking comment by the time this report was filed.