January 1, 2026
By Ayinde Adeleke
Gunmen suspected to be Fulani militia have killed at least seven persons in Bum community, Chugwi, Vwang District of Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, in a late-night attack on New Year’s Eve.
The assailants reportedly struck late on Wednesday, December 31, as residents were observing crossover activities to usher in the New Year, leaving several others injured, houses razed, and the community thrown into panic.
Confirming the incident on Thursday, the National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulder-Association (BYM), Rwang Tengwong, said the attackers exploited the festive atmosphere to carry out the assault.
According to him, the gunmen invaded the community at about 11:00 p.m., shortly before midnight, when residents were preparing to bid farewell to 2025 and welcome 2026.
Tengwong disclosed that seven bodies had been recovered as of Thursday morning, while search-and-rescue operations were still ongoing, raising concerns that the casualty figure could increase.
He expressed concern that the attack occurred despite prior security alerts indicating that some communities in Jos South Local Government Area were at risk of attacks.
“The Bum community has now joined the growing list of rural settlements affected by violent attacks in Plateau State,” he said, noting that the incident has heightened fears over the safety of lives and property, particularly during festive periods meant for peace and celebration.
The Berom Youth Moulder-Association said it is closely monitoring developments and would issue further updates as more details emerge.
