Bloodshed in Nigeria: dozens die in armed community attack

At least 20 people were killed in an armed attack on a community in the Bokkos district of Nigeria’s Plateau, Reuters reports.

According to information released by Plateau police on June 23, the attack took place over the weekend. Police spokesperson Alfred Alabo said security forces, together with other law enforcement agencies, engaged the attackers in a fierce confrontation, forcing them to retreat.

Preliminary reports indicate that 18 people were killed at the scene, while two others later died in hospital from their injuries.

Plateau police commissioner Bassey Ewah has ordered increased security measures in the affected area, deploying additional tactical and mobile police units.

Plateau lies within Nigeria’s so-called Middle Belt, a region that has experienced ethnic and religious tensions for many years. Intercommunal clashes in the area regularly result in casualties.

By Jeyhun Aghazada