BANDITS ATTACK PLATEAU MARKET, ABDUCT 5 TRADERS, LOOT GOODS
A violent attack was carried out by armed bandits on Monday morning in Dogon Ruwa community, Bashar district, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State. The attackers, who arrived on motorcycles in large numbers, opened fire indiscriminately on traders and shoppers at the bustling Dogon Ruwa market, sending hundreds fleeing for their lives. Five traders were abducted during the assault, while the bandits looted shops, making away with significant quantities of food items, consumer goods, and medicines. Abdullahi Isma’il, a shop owner whose business was ransacked, described the ordeal: “They surrounded the area and started shooting. It was terrifying. They kidnapped five traders and looted shops, taking away food, drinks, and medicine. They clearly planned this for market day.” The Dogon Ruwa market is a major trading hub that attracts hundreds of visitors from neighboring communities. The attackers reportedly targeted high-demand goods, carting away large quantities of grains, flour, rice, beans, and other consumables before fleeing the scene. This incident marks the latest in a string of violent attacks plaguing Wase Local Government Area, where bandit activity has intensified in recent months. Plateau State Governor Caleb Muftwang condemned the attacks, describing them as genocidal and part of a broader land-grabbing agenda. He noted that some attackers were reportedly heard speaking foreign languages, deepening concerns about external involvement in the violence. The Plateau State Police Command has yet to issue a formal response to Monday’s incident, and the whereabouts of the abducted traders remain unknown. Community leaders are calling for urgent government intervention to restore peace and ensure the safe return of the kidnapped victims.