Over 40 feared dead in gunmen attack on Jos community

More than 40 people are feared dead following a late-night attack by suspected gunmen on the Gari Ya Waye community in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The incident reportedly occurred on Sunday night, March 29, 2026, at about 7:50 p.m., when armed assailants stormed the community and opened fire on residents, causing panic and forcing many to flee for safety.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers operated for several minutes before security operatives responded. Personnel of the Nigerian Army were said to have arrived at the scene around 8:45 p.m. in an attempt to restore order and secure the area.

By Monday morning, March 30, at least 26 bodies were reportedly counted in parts of Angwan Rukuba, while the total number of casualties in surrounding areas remained unclear as some injured victims had been evacuated during the chaos.

The attack has left the community in a state of tension, with residents urged to remain vigilant as security agencies continue efforts to stabilise the area.

Plateau government imposes curfew as security operations intensify

Following the incident, the Plateau State Government announced a 48-hour curfew in Jos North Local Government Area, effective from midnight on March 29 to April 1, 2026.

The measure was introduced to prevent further breakdown of law and order as security agencies launch investigations into the attack and search for those responsible.

Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang condemned the killings, describing the attack as barbaric and unprovoked, while assuring residents that security forces have been directed to track down the perpetrators.

Authorities have also urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could assist ongoing investigations and help restore peace in the affected communities.

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