No fewer than four persons reportedly died in a clash between bandits and vigilantes in Dogon Ruwa community, Bashar District, of Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Wase villages have witnessed banditry attacks over the past two years, resulting in numerous killings and kidnappings. Hundreds of cattle have been rustled by the bandits.
Abdullahi Shu’aibu, a vigilante and youth leader in Wase, confirmed the incident on Thursday.
According to him: “The bandits arrived at the community intending to kidnap residents. They parked their motorcycles near the village but we had received information about their plans.
“The bandits entered houses, selecting individuals for kidnapping, unaware that vigilantes were lying in wait near the motorcycles. As they attempted to escape with the abductees, vigilantes engaged them, killing three bandits. Unfortunately, one vigilante was also killed.”
The vigilante further revealed that hundreds of residents from various communities have fled to Wase town due to incessant attacks and cattle rustling.
Shuaibu, who is in Wase town, confirmed to Newsmen herders continue to arrive with their cattle in Wase and neighboring towns seeking refuge.