A fierce confrontation reportedly occurred between troops of Operation Safe and bandits in the Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Residents of Gundiri community, where the clash occurred, mentioned that many bandits were gunned down by the soldiers, resulting in casualties on both sides.
The troops, who were conducting a routine anti-banditry operation in the LGA, were met with opposition from the non-state actors.
Although the bandits resisted fiercely, the soldiers managed to push them out of the area.
A local youth leader in Wase, Shapi’i Sambo, disclosed that a significant number of bandits were eliminated when the soldiers launched an assault on their camp, but he could not confirm the exact death toll.
Sambo also mentioned that some soldiers lost their lives during the clash.
Describing the situation, Sambo stated, “Upon receiving continuous reports of criminal activities by the bandits, the security forces took action. Many bandits were neutralized, forcing others to flee.”
An anonymous vigilante from the area corroborated the incident, confirming that three soldiers and more than 15 bandits were killed during the operation. He highlighted the relief felt by the community due to the security forces’ intervention as the bandits had been a constant threat, engaging in cattle rustling and robbery.
Despite attempts to contact Major Samson Zhakom, the spokesperson for Operation Safe Haven, our correspondent was unsuccessful in obtaining a statement from him.
Similarly, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Alabo Alfred, did not respond to calls for comments.
Recent attacks in various communities within the Wase LGA by suspected bandits have left residents in fear. The bandits have reportedly operated in the Bashir district for an extended period.
Just two days prior, the body of a police officer, abducted the week before near Kampani community in the Bashar district, was discovered in a bush by soldiers.
Furthermore, on May 21, bandits carried out an assault on the Zurak community, resulting in the death of over 40 villagers and injuries to many, including local vigilantes assisting the security forces in maintaining order in the council area.