Bandits Ambush And Kills Security Personnel In Plateau
At least 20 security personnel, including members of a local vigilance group, were killed in an ambush by bandits in Wanka community, Keram District of Kanam Local Government Area in Plateau State.
Sources said the attack occurred on Friday night after armed bandits reportedly stormed the community around 8 pm.
A patrol team made up of military personnel and vigilantes was said to be heading to the area when they were ambushed by heavily armed attackers.
The Kanam Development Association confirmed the incident in a statement signed by its chairman, Garba Aliyu, and secretary, Shehu Kanam.
According to the group, 12 security personnel, including two senior military officers, were killed during the gun battle, while eight members of the vigilance group also lost their lives.
The association said some of the attackers were reportedly neutralised during the exchange of gunfire but described the losses suffered by security forces and community defenders as devastating.
The group also alleged that the bandits later attacked Kyaram community, stealing cattle and other property worth millions of naira.
The association called on the Federal Government, Plateau State Government and local authorities to urgently intervene and strengthen security in the affected communities.
It also urged the establishment of a permanent security presence in border areas to prevent further attacks.
As of the time of filing this report, the media officer of Operation Enduring Peace, Captain Chinozo Otteh, said he would provide further details later.
