Plateau State is notorious for violent attacks by bandits and armed militia
By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
A devastating ambush by suspected bandits has claimed the lives of eight members of a vigilance group in Kukawa community of Kanam Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State .
The incident occurred on July 6 when the vigilantes, who had mobilized without notifying the Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) troops, were attacked by armed bandits while advancing towards Odare forest.
Media Officer of OPSH, Major Samson Zhakom, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday in Jos.
Maj. Zhakom said the vigilantes had earlier attacked civilians, looted provision shops, and seized 20 motorcycles in the area, claiming they were finalizing administrative procedures before proceeding to the forest for their mission.
“The vigilantes’ independent action without the approval of security agencies endangered both the operatives and innocent civilians,” Zhakom said.
The OPSH troops have recovered and buried the dead bodies of the deceased and have commenced search and rescue operations to locate other missing persons.
Zhakom emphasized the importance of collaboration between vigilante groups and security agencies, urging residents to support the military and other security agencies in their efforts to ensure the safety of lives and property.
“We recognise the vigilantes’ intent to protect lives and property, but independent actions without approval endanger lives,” Zhakom said.
