By Golok Nanmwa, Jos
The Special Military Task Force in charge of maintaining peace in Plateau State otherwise known as Operation Safe Haven has confirmed that eight vigilantes were killed in last Sunday’s ambush by bandits in Kanam Local Government Area of the state.
They also issued a strong warning to vigilante groups in Plateau State, urging them to refrain from conducting independent security operations without proper coordination with the military.
The spokesman for the taskforce, Major Samson Zhakom, made the disclosure in a statement on Wednesday.
“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.
According to an official statement from OPSH, on July 6, 2025, a large group of vigilantes mobilized from Kanam LGA to carry out an unsanctioned security operation.
The group reportedly failed to inform or coordinate with OPSH troops prior to their mission.
Upon arriving at the Kukawa community, where they briefly halted for administrative reasons, the vigilantes allegedly clashed with local residents, looted provision shops, and forcefully seized over 20 motorcycles from civilians, claiming the items were required for their movement to Odare Forest.
As the vigilantes advanced toward the forest area, they were ambushed by armed bandits.
The attack resulted in the deaths of eight vigilante members, while others remain missing.
OPSH troops from Sector 2 in Wase have since launched a search and rescue operation to locate the missing operatives.
The remains of the deceased vigilantes have been recovered and given proper burial
