Gunmen launched two deadly attacks in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State on Thursday, July 24, 2025, leaving at least 14 villagers and one mobile police officer dead.
The first attack occurred around 4:00 p.m. as locals, primarily from the Chirang community, were returning from the Bokkos market to Mangor village. According to Kefas Mallai, Chairman of Community Peace Observers in Bokkos, the victims were ambushed by suspected terrorists. Fourteen civilians lost their lives, while three others sustained injuries.
“This evening, 14 natives were ambushed and killed,” Mallai confirmed to Punch. “They were on their way home from the market when the attack happened. It’s a heartbreaking situation.”
Earlier that same day, a mobile police officer was also shot and killed at a checkpoint along Richa Road in the same council area.
“Our hearts are bleeding,” Mallai said. “The officer was on duty when he was targeted. That’s two incidents in one day, it’s devastating.”
Reacting to the attacks, Bokkos LGA Chairman Amalau Amalau described the unfolding situation as a full-scale emergency. Speaking while transporting victims to Jos University Teaching Hospital, he said, “We are in crisis mode. Lives have been lost and others are in critical condition. We’ll speak more when things are calm.”
Security forces have since moved into the area, with sources from the state command headquarters confirming the deployment of more personnel to stabilize the situation and prevent further violence.
