Over 300 residents of Zurak and Sabon Gari communities in Plateau State have abandoned their homes following fresh bandit attacks that triggered widespread panic and displacement across the area.
The sudden movement of people came after armed men invaded the affected communities, leaving residents fearful of further violence and uncertain about their safety.
Consequently, families began relocating in large numbers, carrying what they could salvage as they sought refuge elsewhere.
Security sources confirmed that the assailants struck in separate raids, first confronting security formations before advancing into civilian neighbourhoods.
During the assaults, a soldier and several civilians were killed, while a number of security personnel were reported missing.
Moreover, homes, shops, and food stores were set ablaze or ransacked, worsening the humanitarian situation and cutting off many households from their means of survival.
Locals said the attackers operated freely for hours before reinforcements arrived.
Although additional security operatives were later deployed from Wase town, many residents had already fled.
Hence, men, women, and children were seen trekking toward Kampani, a nearby village considered relatively safer, with bags and household items balanced on their heads.
A community member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the fear was overwhelming. “People are not leaving because they want to, but because staying has become too dangerous,” he said.
“When armed groups return repeatedly, trust in safety disappears.”
Similarly, another resident explained that confidence in security protection has weakened over time.
“We appreciate the efforts of the security forces,” he said, “but when attackers come in large numbers, villagers are the ones who suffer the most.”
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had not released an official statement.
However, a spokesperson of the Operation Enduring Peace Joint Task Force in Jos confirmed awareness of the incident and said details would be communicated in due course.
Wase Local Council, particularly communities in the Bashar district, has experienced recurring banditry and kidnapping in recent months.
These repeated attacks have resulted in deaths, abductions, and mass displacement, raising concerns about long-term stability.
Notably, in December 2025, dozens of travellers from a neighbouring community were abducted while travelling to a religious gathering in the same district, underscoring a pattern of insecurity that residents say has yet to be decisively addressed.
For now, displaced families remain uncertain about when, or if, they can safely return home, as fear continues to overshadow daily life in the affected Plateau communities.