At least 18 people have been killed after gunmen launched coordinated overnight attacks on two communities in Plateau State, in the latest violence reported in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.
The attacks took place in Kawel and Kopkon communities in Mushere district, Bokkos Local Government Area. Security sources told counter-insurgency publication Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred around 1:20am on June 20.
Troops of Sector 5 under Operation Enduring Peace were deployed to respond to the assault. The sources said the armed men stormed the villages and opened fire before escaping ahead of the arrival of security forces.
On arrival, troops reportedly recovered 12 bodies in Kawel and six in Kopkon, bringing the total death toll to 18. A follow-up operation was launched to track the fleeing suspects.
Military authorities have intensified patrols and deployments across parts of Plateau State following repeated attacks on rural communities.
Similar incidents have been recorded in recent months, including separate killings in Riyom and Bassa LGAs in May, and earlier mass casualty attacks in Jos North.
Authorities say Operation Enduring Peace continues to coordinate counter-insurgency efforts in the state amid ongoing security challenges.
