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The Special Military Task Force responsible for peacekeeping in Plateau State, known as Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), has confirmed that eight vigilantes were killed during an ambush by bandits last Sunday in Kanam Local Government Area.
The confirmation was made on Wednesday, July 9, in a statement issued by the task force’s spokesperson, Major Samson Zhakom.
Providing details of the incident, the statement read:
“Following recent media reports alleging the killing of 70 vigilantes in the 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 July 6, 2025, a large group of vigilantes mobilised from Kanam Local Government Area with the intent to conduct an independent operation without notifying the 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 task force cautioned vigilante groups against launching operations without coordinating with security agencies and warned that such unauthorised missions put both vigilantes and civilians at risk.
“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.
