No fewer than 300 residents of Zurak and Sabon Gari communities in Bashar district of Wase Local Council of Plateau State are reportedly fleeing their homes over renewed fears of bandit attacks.

The displacement followed two separate attacks on Monday, when bandits riding motorcycles stormed the communities, killing a soldier and five residents in Zurak, while three soldiers were declared missing.
Residents said the attackers first targeted security posts before moving into residential areas, where they burnt houses and shops and looted food items.

Although security personnel were later reinforced from Wase town, the council headquarters, frightened residents have continued to flee to Kampani, a neighbouring village, in search of safety. Men, women and children were seen trekking with their belongings.

A resident, Ya’u Usman, told journalists that people were overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty.
He said: “We understand that they are doing their best, but the bandits often come in large numbers and overpower the security. Our lives are not guaranteed. People cannot continue to live in fear all the time. When law and order are restored, we will return.”

Security agencies are yet to issue an official statement. However, when contacted, the Media Information Officer of Operation Enduring Peace Joint Task Force in Jos, J. A. John, said he was aware of the incident and promised to update journalists.

Communities in Wase council have faced repeated banditry and kidnapping attacks in recent months, resulting in several deaths.

On December 21, 2025, about 28 travellers from Zak community were abducted while on their way to attend Maulud in Sabon Layi community, also in Bashar district.