Deadly Bandit Assault Claims Six Lives in Plateau State Communities
In a devastating escalation of violence, suspected bandits launched coordinated attacks on communities in Plateau State's Wase Local Government Area, resulting in the tragic deaths of five residents and one soldier. The assault occurred on Monday, February 2, 2026, targeting both Zurak and Sabon Gari communities within the Bashar district, leaving a trail of destruction and fear in its wake.
Military Casualties and Missing Personnel
According to local reports confirmed by residents, three soldiers remain missing following intense gun battles with the attackers. The military personnel had been deployed to the area specifically to provide security against persistent banditry and kidnapping threats that have plagued the region for years. The body of the slain soldier was transported to Jos on Tuesday morning, highlighting the severity of the confrontation.
Detailed Account of the Attacks
Jibrin Isa, a resident of Zak community, provided a chilling narrative of the events. "The incident happened around 3pm, and the assailants first attacked the military checkpoint in Sabon Gari before moving to the commercial area of the community, where they looted almost all the shops and carted away food items and other valuables," he explained.
Isa further described how "after attacking Sabon Gari, the bandits later moved to Zurak, where they also attacked the military checkpoint. During the attack in Zurak, they killed five residents and one soldier. Three soldiers are still missing." The attackers reportedly operated in large numbers, overwhelming the security forces stationed in the area.
Community Devastation and Displacement
Shapi'i Sambo, a youth leader in Wase, confirmed both attacks to Daily Trust, noting the profound impact on local residents. The violence has forced mass displacement, with Zurak community now largely deserted as terrified residents have fled to neighboring villages, fearing further assaults. This exodus represents another chapter in the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting Wase LGA communities.
Historical Context of Insecurity
This latest incident adds to years of banditry and kidnapping that have traumatized communities across Wase Local Government Area. The region has witnessed numerous violent episodes, including a particularly tragic event on December 21, 2025, when approximately 28 travelers from Zak community were abducted while journeying to attend Maulud celebrations in Sabon Layi community, also within Bashar district.
The persistent insecurity underscores the challenges facing security forces in protecting vulnerable rural communities from well-armed criminal elements operating with apparent impunity across Nigeria's Middle Belt region.
