Governor Mutfwang Declares 48-hour Curfew As Gunmen Kill Over 40 In Jos
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
More than 40 people are feared dead and several others injured following an attack by suspected gunmen in Gari Ya Waye community, Angwan Rukuba area of Jos, Plateau State.
The assault, which occurred around 7:50 p.m. on Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026, sent residents fleeing in panic as sustained gunfire echoed through the community. Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed the area and opened fire on unsuspecting residents before escaping.
Security personnel, including troops of the Nigerian Army, reportedly arrived about an hour later to restore order and secure the area.
A visit to the scene on Monday morning revealed the scale of the devastation. At least 26 bodies were counted in Angwan Rukuba alone, while casualties in other affected areas remain unclear. Several of the injured were reportedly taken away during the attack, with others transported to nearby mortuaries.
Tension remains high in the area, with residents urged to remain vigilant as authorities work to stabilise the situation.
In response, the Plateau State Government imposed a 48-hour curfew on Jos North Local Government Area, effective from midnight of March 29 to April 1, to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang condemned the killings, describing the attack as “barbaric and unprovoked,” and assured that security agencies are pursuing those responsible.
Authorities have called on residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to support ongoing investigations.
