Abuja, September 20, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
At least nine people were killed in separate attacks by unidentified gunmen in several communities in Nigeria’s central Plateau State between Saturday night and Sunday morning, local media reported.
The attacks were reported in Barkin Ladi, Riyom and neighbouring areas, triggering fresh tensions and prompting some residents to leave their communities.
Bulus Dabit, national president of the Mwaghavul Development Association, said five people were killed when a bus in transit was attacked in Barkin Ladi on Saturday night. Four others were killed while travelling to church early Sunday, according to local reports.
Ukasha Garaba, a youth leader who helped evacuate the victims’ bodies, identified the five bus passengers as labourers travelling to another town in the state for work.
Gambo Abubakar, secretary of the Barkin Ladi branch of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, alleged that some cattle had been stolen by residents and suggested that the attacks could be linked to the missing animals. No group has claimed responsibility.
The violence has heightened concerns in the affected communities, with some residents fleeing while others remained behind to guard their homes.
The latest attacks come days after nine people were killed in another assault on a commercial bus in Plateau State. Police said unidentified gunmen on a motorcycle intercepted the bus at Dungus in Kuru District of Jos South Local Government Area on the night of September 13. Seven people were killed at the scene and two others later died in hospital.
Plateau State Police spokesperson Alfred Alabo described the incident as “callous” and said a manhunt had been launched. Forensic experts, homicide detectives and other personnel were deployed to investigate the attack.
Police also reiterated that an earlier ban on motorcycle operations in some parts of the state remained in force, citing concerns over fatal incidents.
Plateau State lies in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, where recurring violence has often involved disputes over land and resources between different communities.
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