Tragedy struck Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State on Thursday, July 24, when gunmen killed at least 15 people in two separate attacks, sparking fresh calls for state policing.
The first attack occurred around 4:00 pm. Victims, mostly from the Chirang community, were returning from Bokkos Market to Mangor village when they were ambushed.
Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Community Peace Observers in Bokkos, Kefas Mallai, told reporters, “Yes, it is true. There was an attack on our people about 4:00 pm this evening.
“Fourteen natives were ambushed and killed by suspected terrorists while three others were injured on their way from Bokkos Market to Mangor Village of Bokkos LG.”
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He added that security forces had since moved in to take control of the area and protect residents.
Earlier that same day, a mobile police officer was killed at his duty post along Richa Road, also in Bokkos. Mallai described the day’s violence as deeply painful.
“Our hearts are bleeding because early this morning, on 24th July, 2025, a MOPOL was killed at his duty post (checkpoint) along Richa Road, Bokkos LGA. This is what happened in Bokkos today,” he said.
The attacks have left the community shaken and grieving, with many residents once again urging the Federal Government to approve the creation of state police.
The killings mark another grim chapter in Plateau’s struggle with recurring violence, as questions mount over how long communities will wait for lasting protection.