10 killed as gunmen in NDLEA uniforms invade Angwan Rukuba community

At least 10 people have been confirmed killed and several others injured after heavily armed gunmen laid siege to Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State, on Sunday evening.

Eyewitnesses told reporters that the attack, which threw residents into grief and chaos, occurred at about 8pm when more than 20 gunmen stormed the Gari Yawaye area of the community and began shooting sporadically, forcing residents to flee for safety.

The community, home to many staff and students of the University of Jos, was thrown into confusion as the assailants moved through the neighbourhood. One resident said the attackers were dressed in uniforms resembling those of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and arrived on motorcycles before opening fire.

“They even bought some items from a trader before opening fire from within the shop. The shop owner was lucky to have escaped. Four others were not so lucky,” a witness said.

By the time the attackers left, 10 people were reported dead, with others injured either by stray bullets or while trying to escape, residents said.

Sources also reported that security operatives, including the army, arrived in the area nearly an hour after the gunmen had fled, leaving residents to question the delayed response.

In response to the attack and rising tension, the Plateau State Government has imposed a 48‑hour curfew on Jos North Local Government Area, effective from midnight Sunday to Wednesday morning, in an effort to prevent further violence and restore order in the area.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang strongly condemned the assault, describing it as barbaric and unprovoked, and assured residents that security forces have been mobilised to apprehend those responsible and bring them to justice.

The attack has also prompted security concerns at nearby institutions, with the University of Jos postponing examinations scheduled for this week due to safety risks.

Efforts to obtain official comment from the police and military commanders at the time of reporting were unsuccessful.