Three Unlicensed Miners Killed in Plateau State Ambush

Three individuals engaged in unlicensed mining activities were killed by unknown gunmen in Tenti Kampani Village, Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The incident occurred on January 31, 2026, at about 9:23 p.m., along the Machembe–Tenti route.

According to security sources, the victims were ambushed, robbed, and shot while returning to Tenti Village after allegedly participating in illicit mining at a concealed site within Bokkos LGA.

Troops from Sector 5 of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) were deployed to the area shortly after the incident was reported. On arrival, the bodies of the victims were discovered and later identified as Raphael Amos, 30; Junior Malul, 15; and Nanfwang Hassan, 18, a source told security analyst Zagazola Makama.

The bodies were subsequently taken by relatives to the Tenti Primary Health Centre for preservation and burial.

Police and military sources said preliminary investigations suggest the attack was carried out by suspected armed robbers who targeted the victims to steal illegally mined minerals. The sources added that the deceased were involved in illegal mining activities, contrary to the existing ban and closure of all illicit mining sites in the area.

Following the killings, troops intensified offensive patrols across surrounding communities to track down the perpetrators and restore calm.

In response to the incident, the Executive Chairman of Bokkos Local Government Area, in collaboration with Sector 5 troops and other security agencies, imposed a daily curfew on the affected community from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. to prevent a breakdown of law and order.

Security sources said intelligence-led operations are ongoing to identify, locate, and apprehend those responsible, while ensuring strict enforcement of the curfew.