No fewer than eight vigilantes were killed in last Sunday’s ambush by bandits in the Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State.
This was confirmed by the Special Military Task Force in charge of maintaining peace in Plateau State, otherwise known as Operation Safe Haven.
The spokesman for the task force, Major Samson Zhakom, made the announcement in a statement on Wednesday.
The statement which described how the incident occurred read, “Following recent media reports alleging the killing of 70 vigilantes in Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State, Headquarters Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) wishes to clarify the incident.
“While OPSH confirms the occurrence of the event, certain details circulating are inaccurate. Below is an official account of what transpired.
“On 6 July 2025, a large group of vigilantes mobilised from Kanam LGA with the intent to conduct an independent operation without notifying OPSH troops. Upon arriving at the Kukawa community, where they had temporarily halted for administrative purposes, the vigilantes engaged in a confrontation with some residents. Reports indicate that they attacked civilians and looted several provision shops in the area.
“Additionally, the vigilantes allegedly seized over 20 motorcycles from Kukawa residents, claiming they were finalising administrative procedures before proceeding to Odare Forest for their mission.
“However, while advancing toward the forest, the group was ambushed by armed bandits, resulting in the death of eight vigilantes, with others still missing. The remains of the deceased have been recovered and buried, while troops from Sector 2 OPSH in Wase are conducting search and rescue operations to locate the missing individuals.”
The statement advised vigilante groups against carrying out unlawful operations without first coordinating with security personnel, emphasising that autonomous acts without OPSH approval imperil both operatives and innocent bystanders.
“In light of this incident, OPSH strongly advises all vigilante groups and individuals within the state against conducting unauthorised operations without prior coordination with security forces.
“While we recognise the vigilantes’ intent to protect underserved areas, independent actions without OPSH’s approval endanger both the operatives and innocent civilians.
“OPSH remains committed to maintaining peace and security in Plateau State and will take decisive action against any individual or group undermining these efforts, regardless of their motives.
“We urge the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing actionable intelligence and reporting suspicious activities within their communities,” it added.
