By Johnson Tom, Jos

Several residents are feared dead following a deadly attack by armed assailants on settlements in Jwak Maitumbi community, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, in the early hours of Sunday.

Security sources said the attackers stormed the community, killing an unspecified number of residents, razing about 45 houses, and looting valuables belonging to villagers. The assault also forced women, children, and elderly residents to flee their homes in search of safety.

According to reports, troops were deployed to the area after receiving distress information at about 7:45 a.m. Upon arrival, security personnel discovered widespread destruction, including burnt homes and damaged property. Large quantities of crops on nearby farms were also reportedly destroyed during the attack.

Military authorities subsequently engaged community leaders, including the Galadima and youth leader of Jwak Maitumbi, urging them to assist security agencies in identifying and apprehending those responsible for the violence.

Security analysts have expressed concern that the attack could heighten tensions in the area, given Plateau State’s history of recurring communal violence and retaliatory attacks. They warned that failure to bring the perpetrators to justice could fuel further unrest and deepen feelings of insecurity among affected communities.

Troops have continued to maintain a strong presence in the area while working with traditional and community leaders to prevent reprisals, de-escalate tensions, and restore peace. As of the time of filing this report, the Plateau State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the incident.