Eight Vigilantes Killed in Plateau as Bandits Ambush Unauthorized Operation – Military Confirms
The Nigerian military has confirmed that eight vigilantes were killed in an ambush by armed bandits in Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State on Sunday, July 6, 2025.
In an official statement released Wednesday, the Special Military Task Force, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), disclosed that the vigilantes were attacked while attempting to carry out an independent security operation without informing or coordinating with security agencies.
According to OPSH spokesperson, Major Samson Zhakom, the vigilante group mobilized from Kanam LGA to conduct a mission in Odare Forest. Before heading to the forest, they assembled in Kukawa community, where tensions reportedly escalated between them and residents.
The military further alleged that the vigilantes clashed with civilians, looted several provision shops, and forcefully seized over 20 motorcycles from locals. They reportedly claimed these actions were part of administrative procedures for their planned operation.
While en route to Odare Forest, the group was ambushed by heavily armed bandits, resulting in the deaths of eight vigilante members. Several others remain unaccounted for as of the time of this report.
“The remains of the deceased have been recovered and buried, while troops from OPSH’s Sector 2 in Wase are conducting search-and-rescue operations to locate the missing persons,” Zhakom stated.
The military command condemned the unauthorized action, warning community security groups and vigilantes to desist from embarking on operations without prior coordination with formal security agencies. OPSH emphasized that such independent initiatives, even when well-intentioned, pose serious risks to both operatives and civilians.
“While we acknowledge the zeal of local vigilantes to protect their communities, unsanctioned operations compromise security and may lead to avoidable loss of lives,” the statement read.
Reaffirming its commitment to restoring and maintaining peace across Plateau State, OPSH urged residents to support ongoing security efforts by sharing timely and credible intelligence.
“We encourage the public to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and providing useful information that can help prevent future attacks,” Zhakom added.
The latest attack underscores the fragile security situation in some parts of Plateau State and highlights the challenges of managing non-state security actors amid Nigeria’s broader security crisis.
