Tragedy has struck Plateau State in north-central Nigeria, where deadly attacks by armed groups, locally referred to as bandits, have claimed over 70 lives in two communities. The incident is one of the deadliest in recent months amid rising insecurity in the region.
Local sources report that up to 80 people were killed and nearly 100 others injured, including members of a vigilante group tasked with protecting the area. The vigilantes were reportedly ambushed as they approached the bandits’ hideout in a forest reserve known as Madam Forest.
Aliyu Baffa, head of the local vigilance team, confirmed the coordinated nature of the ambush. Meanwhile, youth leader Shapi’i Sambo said efforts are underway to confirm the total death toll and account for the missing.
Security experts warn that without swift government action, these recurring attacks may further destabilize Plateau State and erode public confidence in local security efforts.
