Eight Vigilantes Killed In Plateau Ambush

The Special Military Task Force, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), has confirmed the death of eight vigilantes in an ambush by suspected bandits in Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The tragic incident occurred on Sunday, July 6, 2025, during an unsanctioned mission carried out by local vigilantes.

Major Samson Zhakom, spokesperson for OPSH, disclosed this in a statement released on Wednesday, aimed at correcting “inaccurate media reports” that earlier claimed 70 vigilantes were killed.

“While OPSH confirms the occurrence of the event, certain details circulating are inaccurate,” the statement read. “Here is the official account of what transpired.”

According to OPSH, a large group of vigilantes mobilised from Kanam LGA to launch an unauthorised operation without informing the military task force. They halted briefly at Kukawa community for what was described as “administrative purposes,” but during their stop, a confrontation reportedly broke out.

“Reports indicate that they attacked civilians and looted several provision shops in the area,” OPSH stated.

The vigilantes also allegedly seized over 20 motorcycles from residents before proceeding toward Odare Forest, a known hotspot for bandit activity.

However, as they advanced toward the forest, they were ambushed by armed bandits, resulting in the death of eight operatives, while several others remain missing.

The statement confirmed that the bodies of the deceased vigilantes have been recovered and buried, and troops from OPSH Sector 2 in Wase are currently conducting search-and-rescue operations for the missing.

In response to the incident, OPSH cautioned all vigilante groups against unauthorised missions, warning that such actions not only jeopardise their own safety but also pose risks to civilians.

“While we recognise the vigilantes’ intent to protect underserved areas, independent actions without OPSH’s approval endanger both the operatives and innocent civilians,” the task force said. nude leaks kristen-caverly

OPSH reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace in Plateau State and vowed to take decisive action against any group or individual undermining security efforts.

“We urge the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing actionable intelligence and reporting suspicious activities within their communities,” the statement added.

This latest ambush adds to growing concerns about the rise in vigilante-led security operations in conflict-prone regions and the delicate balance between community defence and military coordination.