PLATEAU AMBUSH: 8 VIGILANTES DECEASED, NUMEROUS UNACCOUNTED FOR, SAYS MILITARY
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BY OWOLABI OLUWADARA
The central office of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) has released a stern caution regarding unauthorized security activities by local vigilante organizations after a lethal ambush resulted in the fatalities of eight vigilantes and numerous others missing in the Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State.
This aligns with news reports indicating that up to 70 vigilantes were slain in the region; however, OPSH elucidated the situation in an official communication, refuting the inflated numbers while acknowledging the fatalities that occurred during the event.
According to OPSH, the vigilantes had mobilized from Kanam LGA on July 6, 2025, to carry out what was intended to be a self-organised security operation without prior notification to or coordination with OPSH troops.
The team paused at the Kukawa community, allegedly to complete logistical arrangements prior to advancing to Odare Forest, the objective of their operation.
Nevertheless, their existence in Kukawa escalated into violence. The OPSH report reveals that the vigilantes confronted inhabitants, plundered numerous stores, and forcibly confiscated over 20 motorcycles from community members. According to OPSH, these acts were conducted under the guise of making preparations for their subsequent journey to the forest.
Shortly after departing Kukawa, the vigilantes were ambushed by suspected bandits near Odare Forest. Eight members of the group were killed in the attack, and several others remain missing. Troops from OPSH’s Sector 2 in the Wase have launched a search and rescue mission to locate the missing individuals. The bodies of the deceased have been recovered and given proper burials.
In a declaration released by the OPSH Media Information Officer, Major Samson Zhakom, the military task force cautioned against any additional autonomous activities by vigilante groups or individuals.
He underscored that while OPSH recognizes the aspiration of communities to safeguard themselves, such initiatives must be synchronized with security agencies to prevent jeopardizing lives and disturbing civil order.
“OPSH strongly cautions against the conduct of unauthorised operations. We urge all vigilante groups to seek proper clearance and coordination before embarking on any mission. The safety of operatives and the general public depends on structured and lawful engagement,” Zhakom said.
He further reassured residents of Plateau State of OPSH’s continued commitment to peace and stability across the region, and encouraged the public to support security agencies by sharing credible intelligence and reporting any suspicious activities.
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