Bandit Raid Leaves Five Dead, Three Soldiers Missing in Plateau

At least five residents were killed and three soldiers declared missing after gunmen attacked two communities in Bashar District of Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State, on Monday.

Residents said the assailants first struck Sabon Gari, setting houses ablaze before targeting a military checkpoint in the area. The attackers later moved to Zurak, where another checkpoint was hit during a gun battle.

Community sources said the soldiers stationed there had been providing security against frequent bandit and kidnapping incidents in the area.

Shapi’i Sambo, a youth leader in Wase, confirmed the attacks on Tuesday. He said the body of a slain military officer was moved to Jos on Tuesday morning.

Jibrin Isa, a resident of Zak, said the attack began around 4 p.m. He said the gunmen overran the checkpoint in Sabon Gari, then entered the commercial area, looting shops and taking food and other goods.

“After Sabon Gari, they moved to Zurak where they attacked another checkpoint. Five residents and one soldier were killed, while three soldiers are still missing,” Isa said.

Residents have since fled to nearby villages, leaving parts of the affected communities deserted.

The Media Information Officer of Operation Enduring Peace, Capt. J. A. John, said he would verify the incident and respond but had not provided an update as of press time.

Wase communities have faced repeated attacks linked to banditry and kidnapping in recent years, with recurring casualties and displacement.