Kukawa killings: Troops warn vigilantes against unauthorised operations in Plateau

The military task force, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), maintaining peace in Plateau State, has warned vigilante groups against conducting any operations without prior authorisation. The warning followed the ambush and killing of several vigilantes in the Kukawa community, Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State, during an unsanctioned mission. A group of vigilantes mobilised from […]

The military task force, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), maintaining peace in Plateau State, has warned vigilante groups against conducting any operations without prior authorisation.

The warning followed the ambush and killing of several vigilantes in the Kukawa community, Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State, during an unsanctioned mission.

A group of vigilantes mobilised from Kanam LGA on Sunday to track bandits in nearby forest hideouts. However, they were ambushed and killed on their way, after allegedly clashing with residents and looting shops in Kukawa.

OPSH spokesperson, Major Samson Zhakom, confirmed the incident, stating that eight vigilantes were killed and several others remain missing.

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Narrating the incident, Zhakom said: “On 6 July 2025, a large group of vigilantes from Kanam LGA attempted an independent operation without OPSH’s knowledge. While stopping in Kukawa for administrative purposes, they reportedly assaulted civilians, looted shops, and seized over 20 motorcycles from residents. As they advanced towards Odare Forest, they were ambushed by armed bandits, resulting in multiple fatalities.”

He added that the deceased have been buried, and troops from Sector 2 of OPSH in Wase are conducting search and rescue operations for the missing.

While acknowledging the vigilantes’ desire to protect underserved areas, OPSH warned that unauthorised operations jeopardise both operatives and civilians.

 “We will take decisive action against any group or individual undermining coordinated security efforts, regardless of intent,” Zhakom warned.

Meanwhile, residents of the Kukawa community have called for the deployment of more security personnel following a deadly ambush on local vigilantes by bandits.