Gunmen Kill One, Abduct Imam and Seven Others in Plateau Community

Gunmen on Sunday evening attacked Dogon Ruwa community in the Bashar District of Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State, killing one resident and abducting an imam, his muezzin (prayer caller), and six other persons.

Dogon Ruwa is among the communities in the area that have recently been plagued by banditry and kidnapping.

Residents said the victims were attacked on the outskirts of the community while engaged in charcoal production for commercial purposes.

Confirming the incident, a youth leader in Wase, Shapi’i Sambo, said the attack triggered panic among residents. He explained that the gunmen stormed the area while the victims were processing charcoal.

According to Sambo, the abducted victims include an imam of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’a Wa’ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), Malam Abdulrashid Baduku, and his muezzin.

“After the attack, residents attempted to trail the assailants but were unable to catch up with them due to the late hour,” Sambo said, adding that the incident has heightened fear in the community.

He noted that security personnel have since been stationed in the area, with additional forces deployed to reinforce security, and urged residents to remain calm.

As of press time, the Plateau State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Alabo Alfred, had yet to respond to inquiries.

Meanwhile, Dogon Ruwa community has recorded previous attacks. On July 29, 2025, bandits reportedly ambushed soldiers and vigilantes in the area, killing two soldiers and two vigilantes.

Similarly, gunmen last week attacked Sabon Gari and Zak communities, where five residents and a soldier were killed.