In a shocking turn of events, 26 people were reportedly killed in attacks by bandits on Christmas Eve in Bokkos and Barkin Ladi local government areas of Plateau State. The incidents, which began around 11:00 pm on Sunday night, have left the communities in a state of despair and fear.
In Bokkos LGA, 11 individuals lost their lives, including a clergyman and five members of the same family. Meanwhile, 15 others were killed in separate attacks on villages in Barkin Ladi LGA. In addition to the loss of life, several houses were reportedly razed during the attack in Barkin Ladi, further escalating the crisis.
The attackers, who are yet to be identified, stormed the communities and began shooting sporadically, causing chaos and panic among the residents.
The Plateau State Police Command has confirmed the incidents. DSP Alfred Alabo, the spokesman of the command, stated, “We are aware of incidents last night in some communities of Barkin Ladi and Bokkos LGAs.”
While the exact casualty figure is still being determined by the Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) in charge of the affected areas, DSP Alabo assured that the details would be made available to journalists as soon as possible.
He further added, “At the moment the situation is calm. The Commander in charge of Pankshin and Bokkos is already there and the Commissioner of Police, Julius Alawari, has sent the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations there.”
The injured have been taken to the hospital and are currently receiving treatment. As the communities grapple with the aftermath of these tragic events, the hope is for justice to be served and for peace to be restored.
