A group of suspected bandits, estimated to be in the dozens, have carried out an attack on Zurak village in Bashar District of Wase local government area, Plateau state. The incident resulted in the deaths of more than 40 inhabitants, among them vigilantes, and caused injuries to numerous others. According to reports, the armed men also burned down multiple houses during the attack.
Residents mentioned that the assault happened around 7 pm on Monday, while the community was involved in their usual evening routines. However, due to the limited communication network in the area, they were not able to promptly inform the authorities about the incident.
A youth leader in the region, Sahpi’i Sambo, verified the occurrence, stating that the bandits arrived on motorcycles, each carrying two individuals, and started firing randomly at the locals using advanced weaponry. He stated: “More than 40 individuals lost their lives, and many others sustained injuries. The village residents have sought refuge in nearby communities. Security forces had not reached the area as of yesterday. It was a brutal attack.”
Another resident, Hamza, informed The Nation over the phone in the morning that Zurak village has been facing ongoing banditry issues. He mentioned that the bandits have been focusing their attacks on the local mining company in this border town situated between Wase and Kanam areas, which has been identified as a terrorist base. Hamza explained that on Monday night, a significant number of bandits infiltrated the community, mirroring the events in Zamfara, to demand their regular payments. Nevertheless, the villagers, particularly those close to the mining company, refused to comply.
This resistance culminated in a violent clash as the residents were no longer willing to endure the extortion. The situation evolved into a firefight, with the bandits threatening to wipe out the villagers. Additionally, Hamza relayed that Isa Musa, another resident, disclosed that around seven individuals were taken as captives while over 40 lost their lives during the attack. Attempts to reach out to the state police command spokesperson, DSP Alabo Alfred, and OPSH Major Samson have proven unsuccessful at the time of this briefing.
From: Nwakaji Peace Martins
