Troops, vigilantes kill bandits, recover AK-47 rifles in Plateau

Troops of Sector 2 under Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), working in conjunction with the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), have neutralised two suspected bandits and recovered weapons during a special operation in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.

This was disclosed in a post on Tuesday by security analyst Zagazola Makama via X (formerly Twitter).

According to Makama, the operation was launched based on credible intelligence indicating that bandit leaders were distributing weapons stolen from local vigilantes during an attack in Odare Forest on 6 July.

The troops reportedly laid an ambush along strategic routes linking Dutsen Zaki and Odare Forests.

“At about 1:30 p.m. on 14 July, the troops encountered the bandits. Two were killed while the others escaped, possibly with gunshot wounds,” Makama reported.

A follow-up search of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, six AK-47 magazines, 27 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and a Boxer motorcycle. All recovered items are now in military custody, according to the update.

Makama also noted that further operations are underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects.

The latest operation is part of ongoing efforts by security forces to tackle banditry across Plateau State, particularly in the wake of recent attacks that have left several communities on edge.

As of the time of reporting, the military has not issued an official statement regarding the incident.