The Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), a Special Military Task Force which was set up to maintain peace in Plateau State, has warned local vigilante groups in the state against conducting operations in the fight against bandits and terrorists without getting prior authorisation from military authorities.
The warning which was issued on Wednesday by spokesman for the taskforce, Major Samson Zhakom, came on the heels of clashes between bandits and vigilante groups in Kukawa and Bunya communities in Kanam Local Government Area which led to the killing of several vigilante members on Monday.
In the warning, Maj. Zhakom urged vigilante groups in the state to refrain from conducting independent security operations without proper coordination with the military.
The OPSH spokesman said though the good intentions of the vigilante members are noble as they are determined to protect the communities, such efforts must be coordinated with official security agencies.
He further reaffirmed the OPSH’d commitment to maintaining peace and stability across Plateau State and pledged to take firm action against any group or individual that attempts to undermine ongoing security operations, regardless of their motive.
