FIC Report (Plateau State) – In another wave of violence in Plateau State, at least 23 people were reportedly killed on Monday night, August 17, 2026, when gunmen attacked Jwak Maitumbi community in Mangu Local Government Area, leaving residents fleeing for safety and several homes and properties destroyed.
According to the information gathered, the attack prompted the deployment of troops from Operation Enduring Peace to the community. Upon arrival, the troops reportedly discovered that at least 45 residential shelters had been destroyed, while valuables belonging to residents were allegedly looted.
Several residents were reportedly killed during the attack, while women, children and elderly persons were forced to flee their homes in search of safety.
The attackers were also said to have entered farmlands belonging to members of the community and destroyed a significant quantity of crops, further compounding the losses suffered by residents.
Security personnel subsequently engaged traditional and community leaders to gather information and identify those responsible for the attack. Troops have continued operations in the area as efforts are made to restore calm and prevent further violence.
The incident has raised concerns about the possibility of reprisal attacks, prompting calls for security agencies and community leaders to take urgent measures to prevent further escalation.
Residents and concerned groups have called on the Federal Government, Plateau State Government and security agencies to strengthen the protection of vulnerable communities, investigate the attack and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The reported killing has also sparked condemnation, with renewed calls for an end to the continued loss of innocent lives and displacement of communities across Plateau State.
However, the reported figure of 23 deaths had not been officially confirmed by the Plateau State Police Command at the time of reporting.
Residents are appealing for a sustained security presence in Jwak Maitumbi to enable displaced persons to return safely and protect their homes, farms and livelihoods.
Idi, Salama Peace,
Senior Information officer,
For: Head of centre,
FIC, Jos.
