Suspected bandits stormed Wanka community in Keram District, Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State, killing three soldiers and seven vigilantes.

The tragic incident occurred around 5:30 pm on Friday, when the bandits invaded the village and opened fire sporadically, spreading fear among the residents.

It was also reported that several bandits lost their lives during the confrontation.
A source from the community told DAILY POST that two army captains were among those killed.

The source explained that prior to the attack, the locals had been coexisting with the bandits for some time, stressing that bandits had virtually taken control of the area, as they used to come around, do as they please, and leave without forcing residents out of the community.

On Friday morning, he said, security personnel under the command of the two captains stormed the community, engaged the bandits, and killed several of them while others fled.

He said, “Hours after the incident, and even before the soldiers left, the bandits regrouped from the nearby bushes, attacked and engaged the soldiers and the vigilantes working with them, leading to casualties on both sides. Many bandits also lost their lives.”

He explained that the bandits were well equipped, which gave them the opportunity to confront the security personnel and vigilantes. He said the engagement lasted for several minutes, and it is yet to be ascertained if residents were affected.

Captain Polycap Oteh, the spokesperson of Operation Enduring Peace, could not respond to calls and SMS by our correspondent as at press time.

Several villages in Wase and Kanam, which share a border, have consistently witnessed bandit attacks.