Bandits launch deadly assault in Plateau community, claimed lives of a pastor and two others
Breaking News: Deadly Bandit Attacks Strike Suwa and Ding'ak Villages in Plateau State
In a shocking turn of events, three people, including Pastor Gideon Katings of COCIN Suwa, were killed in a bandit attack that occurred on Friday, August 8, 2025, in Suwa and Ding'ak villages of Mushere Chiefdom, Bokkos LGA, Plateau State. The attack, which took place between 1 pm and 2 pm, also left several others injured, including Michael Kamshak, who is currently receiving treatment at the Cottage Hospital in Bokkos.
The tragic incident has caused hundreds of residents to flee and be displaced from their homes due to fear and insecurity arising from the attack. This is part of a troubling trend of increasing gunmen attacks in the area over recent years, with reports of up to 100 people killed in the broader Bokkos LGA in the last two years and over 60 killed in a single attack on Christmas Eve 2023.
Kefas Mallai, Chairman of the Community Peace Observers in Bokkos, has confirmed the killings and provided details about the victims and the displaced residents. However, Alabo Alfred, spokesman for the Plateau State Police Command, was unavailable for comment at the time of the inquiry.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has strongly condemned the attacks, calling them genocide and a coordinated attempt at land grabbing. He has vowed to collaborate with security agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety of the affected communities. Amalau Samuel Amalau, Chairman of Bokkos LGA, has also called on security agencies to take decisive action against the attackers and stressed the need to protect innocent lives and prevent further displacement of residents.
The community is currently grappling with the aftermath of the attack, with widespread destruction of property reported. As the situation unfolds, our thoughts are with the families of the victims and the affected communities. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.
- Reports suggest that prominent religious leader, Pastor Gideon Katings, was among the victims in the recent bandit attacks in Nigeria, specifically in Suwa and Ding'ak villages, a troubling sign of escalating gunmen attacks in the region.
- Amidst the aftermath of the tragic events, top political figure, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, has deemed the attacks as genocide, noting a coordinated attempt at land grabbing, and has vowed to work with security agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice and secure the safety of the affected communities.
- The unfortunate incident, which left three people dead and hundreds displaced, has once again raised concerns about the ongoing violence and insecurity in Nigeria, further emphasizing the need for increased police presence and action against crime and justice, as well as addressing war-and-conflicts.
- As the community reels from the consequences of the latest bandit attacks, considerable general-news coverage has highlighted the plight of the affected residents and focused attention on the necessity for peace and stability in Nigeria, particularly in Plateau State.
- In the face of these challenges, various community leaders and politicians, such as Amalau Samuel Amalau, Chairman of Bokkos LGA, have urged security agencies to take immediate action to apprehend the bandits and prevent further destruction, loss of lives, and displacement.
