Nigeria, March 15 -- At least 20 security operatives and local vigilantes were killed on Friday when suspected bandits ambushed a joint patrol team in the Garga area of Kanam Local Government Area, Plateau State, a community group has stated.

The group said the attack occurred around 4 p.m. when a combined team of military personnel and vigilantes, travelling in two vehicles on routine patrol across Garga, Kyaram, Gyambau and adjoining communities, came under heavy gunfire near Wanka.

In a statement on Saturday, the Kanam Development Association (KADA) said 12 members of the security forces, including two military officers, as well as eight vigilante members, died.

KADA added that although some of the attackers were reportedly killed, ...