The Plateau State Government has warned residents of communities in Kanam Local Government Area about an ongoing Kanam military operation targeting bandits in the Garga axis following a deadly security incident on Friday

The alert was issued in a statement on Sunday after reports emerged that armed bandits ambushed a patrol team of security personnel and local vigilantes operating in the area.

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The Kanam Development Association of Plateau State had earlier raised the alarm over the attack, saying the patrol team was ambushed in the Garga area of the council.

The incident reportedly 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 gunfire from bandits near Wanka.

Sources said the attack resulted in the deaths of some security operatives, while panic spread among residents in nearby communities.

In its statement, the Plateau State Government expressed deep concern over the incident and acknowledged the anxiety it may have caused among residents of Wanka, Kyaram, Gyambau and surrounding settlements.

“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 statement said.

The government also confirmed that armed bandits later invaded Kyaram community, unleashing mayhem on residents.

While condemning the attack, the state authorities commended the bravery and sacrifice of security personnel and local vigilantes who lost their lives while 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 statement added.

The administration of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang said it is working closely with the military and other security agencies to intensify surveillance, reinforce security presence and strengthen response operations across vulnerable border communities.

Authorities also urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies while the operation continues.

“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,” the government said.

The state government added that it is engaging traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders in Kanam Local Government Area to support ongoing peace and security efforts.

Citizens were encouraged to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to help tackle threats in the area.

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The government further warned against the spread of unverified information that could heighten fear or tension among residents, assuring that decisive measures are being taken to restore security and protect communities across the state.