A deadly battle between vigilantes, soldiers, and bandits has left scores dead in the forest near Dutsen Zaki community, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.
According to Abdullahi Hussaini, a vigilante leader in the area, the fight began last Saturday and lasted until Wednesday. Over 300 vigilantes launched a surprise attack on the bandits’ hideout in the thick forest around Dutsen Zaki, which is surrounded by villages such as Zurak, Aduwa, Kinashe, and Odare in Bashar district.
The operation reportedly killed more than 80 bandits, including some of their wives, while four vigilantes lost their lives. Sixteen vigilantes who were injured in the clash are receiving treatment at Federal Medical Centre in Wase and a hospital in Bauchi State.
Hussaini explained that the violence is a response to the daily attacks, kidnappings, and killings that have made life unsafe for residents in the area. “People cannot live in their houses simply because of fear. The bandits have made the forest their home for a long time, but now the fight will continue until they leave,” he said.
A youth leader, Shapi’i Sambo, confirmed that one of the slain vigilantes was a commander and that a new leader has been appointed to continue the fight against the bandits.
Residents living near the forest have fled their homes due to fear of more violence. Abdullahi Bin Umar, a local resident, said, “People are scared about what may happen next, given the number of bandits killed.”
This incident follows a similar attack two weeks ago when five bandits were killed in Kadil Masudu village of Wase. The latest clash shows growing efforts by security forces and vigilantes to reclaim communities from armed bandits terrorizing Plateau State.
