Jos, Plateau State — Panic and grief have gripped Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area following a brutal attack by unknown gunmen that left several residents dead, with conflicting reports emerging over the actual number of casualties.
The Plateau State Police Command confirmed that 12 persons were killed during the late-night assault on March 29, 2026. According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Alfred Alabo, the victims comprised 10 men and two women.
The police further disclosed that two additional bodies were discovered during ongoing search operations in nearby bushes, bringing the officially confirmed death toll higher as security operatives intensify efforts to track down the attackers.
However, members of the community and eyewitnesses insist that the casualty figure is far greater. An eyewitness, Danladi, told reporters that he personally counted 27 bodies, alleging that more corpses had been retrieved from the mortuary by residents awaiting the visit of the state governor.
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“As I am talking to you, I have counted 27 bodies. There were initially 14 dead bodies, but the community members went to the mortuary and retrieved about 13 others, waiting for the governor to see what had happened,” he said. “We want him to personally see our brothers who have been so brutally butchered.”
The attack reportedly occurred at about 8:30 p.m., when gunmen stormed the area and opened fire, triggering chaos and fear among residents.
In response, the Commissioner of Police led a joint team of officers—including members of the Command Management Team, PMF Squadron Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and other tactical units—alongside other security agencies to the scene.
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Authorities said the operation was aimed at restoring calm and preventing further violence, while a coordinated manhunt is underway to apprehend the perpetrators.
“As we speak, the Police and all other security agencies within the State have organised a joint operation and are currently combing the nearby bushes to ensure that the suspects are arrested or dislodged in accordance with the law,” the statement read.
The police added that the bodies of the victims have been evacuated to the mortuary for autopsy, while efforts are ongoing to confirm their identities.
While commiserating with the bereaved families, the Commissioner assured residents that investigations are in progress and that those responsible for the attack would be brought to justice.
The incident has heightened tensions in the area, as residents call for increased security presence and urgent government intervention to prevent further bloodshed.
