Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
A wave of violence swept through Berom communities in Plateau State on Tuesday night, August 11, 2026, as gunmen launched coordinated attacks on at least four locations, killing two people, injuring another, and setting houses ablaze. The attacks, which occurred between 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., targeted Gwa-Wereng Rim, Kyeng Village in Bachi District, Dorong and Jol Village, according to the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM).
The BYM, in a statement issued on Wednesday, August 12, confirmed the identity of the victims. At Gwa-Wereng Rim, gunmen invaded the community at about 9:30 p.m. and opened fire on residents, killing Bulus Mwagwong, popularly known as Dikko. His cousin, Yakubu, sustained serious injuries in the same attack. In a separate incident at Kyeng Village in Bachi District, suspected attackers killed 47-year-old Stephen Dachollom Kaze at about 8:30 p.m.. Meanwhile, in Dorong, the attackers set houses ablaze, destroying property and forcing residents to flee. At Jol Village, armed attackers reportedly engaged local vigilantes in a gun battle, further heightening tension in the community.
The attacks have added to the growing list of violent incidents in Plateau State, where rural communities have been repeatedly targeted by gunmen. The BYM, under the leadership of its President, Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, condemned the attacks, describing them as a disturbing threat to the lives, livelihoods and safety of rural communities. The association expressed concern over the increasing frequency of attacks on communities, particularly farmers and other residents who depend on their farmlands for their livelihoods. "The attacks occurred on Tuesday night in at least four locations, including Gwa-Wereng Rim, Kyeng Village in Bachi District, Dorong and Jol Village," the BYM said in its statement.
The BYM called on security agencies to strengthen their presence in vulnerable communities, intensify surveillance, and apprehend those responsible for the attacks. It also urged authorities to ensure that perpetrators of the killings and destruction are arrested and prosecuted. The association appealed to the Plateau State Government and other relevant authorities to provide immediate assistance to affected families and communities, particularly those who lost loved ones, homes and other property in the attacks. It also condoled with the families of the victims and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
The Plateau State Police Command has not yet issued an official statement on the attacks, but the BYM has urged residents to remain vigilant, peaceful and united, stressing the need for concerted efforts to prevent further escalation of violence in the affected communities. The attacks come just days after gunmen ambushed a joint security patrol in Riyom Local Government Area, killing two security operatives and fleeing with their service rifles. The latest attacks on Berom communities highlight the persistent security challenges facing Plateau State, where rural communities have been caught in a cycle of violence for years.
The victims, Bulus Mwagwong and Stephen Dachollom Kaze, were both residents of the affected communities, with Kaze described as a 47-year-old farmer. The BYM said the attacks have left families grieving and communities in fear, as gunmen continue to operate with impunity. The association has called for urgent and decisive security action to protect lives and property and restore confidence among residents. As the people of Plateau State mourn their dead and count their losses, the question remains: when will the violence end?
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