By Israel Adamu, Jos
Scores of bandits and vigilantes are feared dead following a fierce clash between bandits and a combined force of vigilantes and soldiers near the Dutsen Zaki community in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.
It was gathered that 16 vigilantes were reportedly injured during the encounter and are currently receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Wase and another hospital in Bauchi State.
Dutsen Zaki is a dense forest surrounded by villages including Zurak, Aduwa, Kinashe, and Odare in the Bashar district of Wase LGA. Many residents have recently fled their homes due to repeated attacks.
This latest confrontation comes just two weeks after security operatives and vigilantes reportedly killed five bandits in Kadil Masudu village, also in Wase.
Speaking to newsmen on Wednesday, Abdullahi Hussaini, a vigilante leader in the area, disclosed that the fight began on Saturday morning and continued until Wednesday, when over 300 vigilantes advanced on the bandits’ hideout.
According to Hussaini, more than 80 bandits were allegedly killed, while four vigilantes also lost their lives in the operation.
“We started the fight on Saturday. We were forced to confront these armed men,” Hussaini stated.
Shapi’i Sambo, a youth leader in Wase, also confirmed the incident, noting that the four vigilantes killed included a commander of the group.
Abdullahi Bin Umar, a resident of one of the affected villages, corroborated the account in a separate interview with newsmen.
As of the time of filing this report, the spokesperson for Operation Safe Haven, Major Samson Zhakom, had not responded to requests for comment.
It will be recalled that Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang recently raised the alarm over the growing wave of insecurity in the state, lamenting that bandits have taken over several communities.
The governor, who has pledged to restore peace and provide good governance, reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens in the state.
