At least nine members of a single family, including a two-month-old infant, were reportedly k!lled in a late-night attack by suspected Fulani militias on Kum community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
According to residents, the attack began at about 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2026 and lasted for more than an hour.
The village head of the community was also critically injured.
A resident, Precious Tok, who confirmed the attack, told punch on Sunday that the attackers stormed the community in large numbers and opened fire indiscriminately.
“The gunmen came in large numbers, shooting everywhere. We could hear screams from the houses. They entered homes and slaughtered people. It was one of the d3adliest attacks we have seen here in recent times,” Tok said.
“The victims in one house were nine from the same family. Even a two-month-old baby was not spared. We ran into the bush for safety and only returned this morning to see the bodies.”
Another resident, who requested anonymity, described the scene as horrific and lamented the recurring insecurity in the area.
“We buried our children with our own hands again. This is too much. Government should come and help us. Every time they attack at night and by morning people are dead. We are tired of running,” the resident said.
The Public Relations Officer of Berom Youths Moulders Association (BYM) Riyom District darkness, Comrade Vincent Caleb Alamba, who confirmed the incident in a statement on Sunday said the attack was carried out under the cover of darkness.
“The Berom Youths Moulders Association (BYM), Riyom District, strongly condemns in the strongest possible terms the gruesome attack carried out yesterday in Kum Community, Riyom Local Government Area, which reportedly claimed the lives of nine innocent members of the same family,” the statement read.
“This barbaric and inhumane act, allegedly perpetrated by suspected Fulani bandits operating from the Fass axis, is a painful reminder of the persistent insecurity and senseless bloodshed that has continued to plague our communities.
“We are deeply saddened by this horrific tragedy and extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the people of Kum Community, and the entire Riyom Local Government Area.
“BYM Riyom District considers this attack an assault not only on the victims’ family but also on the peace, unity, and dignity of our people.
“The continuous targeting of innocent and defenseless civilians is unacceptable and must not be allowed to continue.
“We therefore call on the Federal Government, the Plateau State Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to urgently launch a thorough investigation into this heinous crime, arrest the perpetrators and their sponsors, and ensure they are brought to justice without delay.
“The repeated attacks on our communities must no longer be met with silence or inadequate responses.
“We also urge security agencies to strengthen security presence across vulnerable communities in Riyom Local Government Area to prevent further loss of innocent lives and restore confidence among our people.
“The Berom Youths Moulders Association (BYM), Riyom District, remains committed to the pursuit of justice, peace, and the protection of every innocent life.
“We stand in solidarity with the people of Kum Community during this difficult time and pray that God grants eternal rest to the souls of the departed and comfort to their grieving family. Enough is Enough! The bloodshed in Riyom must stop.”
