By Juliet Ezeh
At least 20 security operatives, including military personnel and local vigilantes, have been killed following a deadly ambush by bandits in Plateau State.
The attack reportedly occurred in the Garga axis of Kanam Local Government Area on Friday when a patrol team came under heavy gunfire from armed attackers.
Sources within the community said the security team, made up of soldiers and vigilante members, was on a routine patrol across Garga, Kyaram, Gyambau and nearby settlements when they were ambushed near Wanka.
The patrol team was reportedly travelling in two vehicles when dozens of bandits opened fire on them, triggering a fierce gun battle.
Local reports indicate that about 12 security personnel, including two senior military officers, lost their lives during the encounter, while eight members of the local vigilante group who joined the patrol were also killed.
The attack has heightened concerns over worsening insecurity in rural communities across Plateau State.
Following the ambush, the armed attackers reportedly moved into nearby villages, including Kyaram, where they looted valuables and rustled several cattle belonging to residents.
Community leaders say the incident is part of a persistent wave of attacks affecting border communities linking Plateau with neighbouring states.
The Kanam Development Association condemned the attack, describing it as tragic and unacceptable.
In a statement signed by its chairman, Garba Aliyu, and secretary, Shehu Kanam, the association called on authorities to urgently strengthen security in the affected communities.
The group urged the government to deploy more security personnel and establish permanent security bases in vulnerable areas such as Garga, Kyaram, Gyambau and Wanka.
Residents say the communities, which lie close to borders linking Plateau with Taraba State and Bauchi State, have suffered repeated incidents of banditry, kidnappings and cattle rustling in recent years.
Spokesman for the Joint Military Taskforce in Plateau, Chinonso Oteh, confirmed that the military was aware of the incident and said an official statement would be issued.
The latest attack has renewed calls for stronger security operations to curb bandit activities and protect communities in the region.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.