"WE KILLED SEVERAL BANDITS AND THEIR WIVES"- VIGILANTE TAKES FIGHT TO BANDITS IN PLATEAU

A joint operation involving local vigilante groups and military forces has led to the deaths of several suspected bandits and their spouses in Dutsen Zaki, a forested area within the Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State as reported by the Daily Trust.

The offensive, which commenced on Saturday and extended through Wednesday, also resulted in the deaths of four vigilantes, with 16 others currently receiving medical treatment for injuries sustained during the clashes.

According to Abdullahi Hussaini, a leader of the local vigilante group, the operation has now entered its fifth day. It was initiated to eliminate armed gangs terrorizing nearby communities such as Zurak, Aduwa, Kinashe, and Odare in the Bashar district.

Hussaini explained that over 300 vigilantes mobilized into the forest to confront the criminals. The confrontation led to the neutralization of many bandits and their wives, although the vigilantes suffered casualties as well.

Describing the outcome as a significant achievement, Hussaini noted that the bandits had long used the Dutsen Zaki forest as a base for attacks on surrounding villages. The injured vigilantes are currently receiving care at the Federal Medical Centre in Wase and another hospital in Bauchi State.

“We began the operation on Saturday because the communities in the Bashar area have become unsafe. Residents live in constant fear of attacks, killings, and kidnappings. The bandits’ activities have become a daily threat, which compelled us to take the fight directly to their hideout,” Hussaini stated.

He added that the mission would continue until all armed criminals are expelled from the forest. “This is a challenging task because the bandits have entrenched themselves in the forest for a long time.

"Previous attempts to dislodge them were unsuccessful, but this time we have made significant progress, killing several bandits and their wives, with many others fleeing. We now have control over the forest,” he said.

Shapi’i Sambo, a youth leader from Wase, confirmed the deaths of the four vigilantes, including the group’s commander, who has since been replaced to lead the ongoing efforts.

A local resident, Abdullahi Bin Umar, also confirmed the conflict and revealed that many villagers living near the forest have fled their homes, fearing further violence.

 “People are genuinely worried about what might happen next, especially after hearing about the number of bandits killed,” he said.