Suspected bandits attacked Zurak community in the Bashar district of Plateau State on Monday, killing five residents and a soldier.
Residents disclosed that three soldiers are still missing following a gun battle with the attackers. The troops had been deployed to the area to provide security amid ongoing incidents of banditry and kidnapping.
It was gathered that the assailants had earlier set several houses ablaze in Sabon Gari community, also in the Bashar district, before advancing to Zurak.
A youth leader in Wase, Shapi’i Sambo, confirmed the attacks to Daily Trust on Tuesday, adding that the body of the slain soldier was evacuated to Jos earlier that morning.
Also confirming the incident, Jibrin Isa, a resident of Zak community, said the bandits invaded both communities in large numbers, overwhelming the security personnel stationed there.
According to him, the attack began around 3 p.m., with the assailants first targeting a military checkpoint in Sabon Gari before moving into the commercial area, where they looted shops and made away with food items and other valuables.
“After the attack on Sabon Gari, the bandits proceeded to Zurak and again attacked the military checkpoint. During the assault, five residents and one soldier were killed, while three soldiers remain unaccounted for,” Isa said.
He described the attack as devastating, noting that Zurak community has since been deserted, as residents fled to neighbouring villages over fears of further attacks.