Several local vigilantes were killed in an ambush by armed bandits near the Bauchi–Plateau border, the Bauchi State Police Command confirmed on Monday.

Police spokesperson Ahmed Wakil said the attack occurred early Saturday during a routine patrol by a joint team of hunters from Duguri and Gwana districts in the Dajin Madam forest. The ambush led to casualties on both sides, including vigilantes and bandits.

A tactical police team was deployed to recover bodies, and preliminary findings showed that civilians from Sabuwar Sara village were also among the dead. A special police unit is now working to track down the attackers.

Commissioner of Police Sani-Omolori Aliyu visited local leaders, condemned the killings, and assured the public that efforts are underway to bring the perpetrators to justice. The exact death toll has not been officially released.