The Plateau State Government has alerted residents of Kanam Local Government Area to an ongoing military operation against bandits in the Garga axis, following a security incident on Friday.
The Kanam Development Association had on Saturday raised the alarm over the killing of no fewer than 20 security personnel, including local vigilantes, in the council area.
According to the group, the security operatives, who were part of a patrol team, were ambushed in the Garga area of Kanam Local Government Area on Friday.
Our correspondent gathered that the incident occurred around 4 pm when a combined team of military personnel and vigilantes travelling in two vehicles on routine patrol across Garga, Kyaram, Gyambau and neighbouring communities came under heavy fire from bandits near Wanka, resulting in the deaths of the security operatives.
In a statement on Sunday, the government expressed deep concern over the incident, which also involved an attack on the Kyaram community that left residents in distress.
The government condemned the attack and commended the security personnel and local vigilantes who lost their lives confronting the attackers.
The statement read, “The Plateau State Government has expressed deep concern over reports of a security incident affecting communities around the Garga axis of Kanam Local Government Area on Friday, March 13, 2026.
“The government acknowledges the anxiety this development may have generated among residents of Wanka, Kyaram, Gyambau and neighbouring settlements, particularly following reports that bandits invaded the Kyaram community and unleashed mayhem on innocent residents.
“While condemning the attack in strong terms, the state government commends the bravery and sacrifice of security personnel and local vigilantes who lost their lives in the course of confronting the attackers.
“Their courage and dedication in the face of danger remain a testament to their commitment to the safety of Plateau communities.
“The administration of the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, remains resolute in its determination to safeguard the lives and property of all citizens.
“Government is working closely with the military and other security agencies to intensify surveillance, reinforce security presence, and strengthen response operations across vulnerable border communities.”
The statement assured residents that decisive measures were being taken to restore and strengthen security in the area and advised against spreading unverified information capable of heightening fear or tension.
“Residents of the affected areas and the general public are therefore urged to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding while security operatives continue with ongoing operations aimed at restoring lasting peace in the communities.
“Furthermore, the state government is engaging traditional rulers, community leaders and other critical stakeholders in Kanam Local Government Area to support ongoing peace and security efforts.
“Citizens are encouraged to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information that will assist in tackling security threats.
“The Plateau State Government reassures the people of Kanam and the entire state that it remains fully committed to taking all necessary measures to ensure the protection of lives, the safety of communities and the preservation of peace across Plateau State,” the statement added.