A group of armed bandits attacked the Dogon Ruwa community in the Bashar District of Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State, on Monday, abducting five residents and looting several shops at a busy local market.
Eyewitnesses told our correspondent that the assailants, who arrived on motorcycles around 11 a.m., opened fire indiscriminately, causing panic and forcing traders and buyers to flee.
During the chaos, five shop owners were reportedly seized and taken away by the attackers.
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“The bandits stormed the market while trading was at its peak, surrounded the area, and began shooting. They abducted five people and looted shops, taking away large quantities of food and medicines,” said Wase youth leader Shapi’i Sambo.
The market, known for its vibrant trade in items such as rice, flour, beans, beverages, and pharmaceutical products, draws hundreds of people from nearby communities.
Sambo added that security operatives, including soldiers and local vigilantes, have since been mobilised in pursuit of the attackers.
As of press time, Major Samson Zhakom, spokesperson for Operation Safe Haven, had not responded to requests for comment.
The attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents in the Bashar District. Residents say bandit assaults have become frequent, resulting in deaths, kidnappings, and the destruction of property.
They are calling on the government and security agencies to urgently intervene.
