At least seven people were killed in a late-night attack on the Bum community in Chugwi, Vwang District of Jos South Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State. The assailants, described as armed militants, bandits, or suspected Fulani militia, stormed the community around 11 p.m. on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. The attack occurred as residents were observing crossover night, preparing to usher in the New Year 2026, tragically turning a moment of celebration into one of mourning. In addition to the fatalities, several others were injured, and houses were reportedly set ablaze, plunging the community into chaos and grief.

The Berom Youths Moulder-Association (BYM) confirmed the incident, with its National Publicity Secretary, Rwang Tengwong, stating on Thursday that bodies of the victims had been recovered and search and rescue operations were ongoing, raising fears that the casualty figure could rise. Tengwong described how the militants exploited the New Year celebrations to launch their deadly assault, unleashing violence on unsuspecting residents just minutes into 2026. The association condemned the killings, urging security agencies to immediately pursue those responsible and warning about the escalating fear and insecurity in rural communities due to repeated attacks.

A significant concern highlighted by the BYM was that the tragic incident occurred despite prior security alerts indicating that several communities in Jos South LGA were under threat and had been earmarked for possible attacks. These warnings were allegedly ignored by security agencies. This latest attack adds to a growing list of violent assaults on innocent rural communities in Plateau State, further deepening concerns over the safety of lives and property, particularly during festive periods typically meant for peace and celebration.

Efforts by various media outlets, including PREMIUM TIMES and Daily Trust, to obtain official reactions from security agencies and government officials proved unsuccessful. The spokespersons for the Plateau State Police Command (Alfred Albo/SP Alabo Alfred), Operation Enduring Peace (Major Samson Zhakom), and the state Commissioner of Information (Joyce Ramnap) were unreachable, with calls and messages going unanswered. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, although Plateau State has a history of fatal attacks by various armed groups, consistently targeting rural communities despite government assurances of reinforced security measures. Residents and local leaders continue to appeal for more proactive security interventions to prevent further loss of life.