Tragedy in Plateau: Gunmen Invade Wereng Community, Kill Eight, Burn Homes, and Loot Food Items

 

Another heartbreaking tragedy has struck Plateau State, as no fewer than eight people have been brutally killed by unknown gunmen who invaded Wereng camp community in Riyom Local Government Area. The gruesome attack, which occurred late in the night on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, has left the community in deep sorrow, shock, and fear.

According to eyewitness accounts and sources from the area, the assailants stormed Wereng village under the cover of darkness and began shooting sporadically, creating widespread panic and confusion among residents. The gunmen, whose numbers were said to be many, moved through the village and opened fire indiscriminately, targeting anything and anyone they saw.

The result of this senseless violence was devastating. Eight lives were lost, with most of the victims reported to be children and elderly persons, who could not run or escape in time.

Several other villagers were seriously injured in the chaos and are currently receiving medical treatment in a nearby hospital. Their conditions remain uncertain at the time of filing this report.

In addition to the tragic loss of lives, the attackers burned down over 20 houses belonging to innocent villagers. To make matters worse, they also looted food items and household properties, leaving survivors not only mourning their dead but also homeless and without basic necessities.

One source from the community, who chose to remain anonymous due to fear of reprisal, recounted the horrific experience. According to him, the attackers came well-armed and in large numbers, with the intention of destroying everything in sight.

"The gunmen came in their numbers and started shooting anything at sight," the source told reporters. He expressed deep sadness over the destruction, describing the assault as completely unprovoked and senseless.

"Several foodstuff were carted away by the rampaging gunmen," he added with pain in his voice.

The attack on Wereng is just the latest in a series of violent incidents that have plagued Plateau State in recent months. Other Local Government Areas such as Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, and Riyom have all suffered similar fates, with multiple attacks by armed men leading to numerous deaths, injuries, and the destruction of properties.

Reacting to the latest tragedy, the Honourable Member representing Riyom State Constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Dachung Dadon, confirmed the attack and condemned the ongoing killings in the region.

“Eight members of my constituency were attacked and killed on Wednesday night in Wereng village. As I speak to you, the entire village has been ransacked by the assailants,” Hon. Dadon said in a statement to the press.

He expressed deep concern over the repeated attacks in his constituency and across Plateau State, stating that such violence is becoming far too common and unacceptable. He made a strong appeal to both the government and security agencies, urging them to take urgent and decisive action to restore peace and protect the lives of the people.

“This violence must stop,” he emphasized.

As of now, there has been no official statement from the police or military authorities regarding arrests or steps being taken to secure the area and prevent further bloodshed.

The people of Wereng and other affected communities are calling for help, protection, and justice. They are tired of burying loved ones, losing their homes, and living in constant fear.