Several killed as fresh militia attacks hit Taraba communities
Armed Attacks in Taraba State Lead to Multiple Deaths
KARIM-LAMIDO, Taraba State — A recent surge of violence attributed to suspected armed militia has resulted in several fatalities in the Karim-Lamido Local Government Area, local sources and residents reported.
The attacks reportedly began three days ago in Didango village, where gunmen ambushed a group of youths returning home from a screening of an English Premier League match. Two young men were fatally shot during this incident.
Residents indicated the violence subsequently spread to the nearby villages of Gaita, Loba, and Lewatha in what appeared to be coordinated assaults. This escalation forced many villagers to flee into surrounding bushes for safety.
Dauda Bulus, a resident of Mayo-Gauro village, which is located a few kilometers from Didango, stated that the assaults were allegedly orchestrated by armed militia from a neighboring community. He noted that the affected areas have endured recurrent attacks over the years, leading to loss of life, the displacement of inhabitants, and widespread property destruction.
A resident of Didango also reported that farmers were ambushed while returning from their fields, resulting in additional injuries. The assailants then targeted more communities, further increasing casualties and driving residents from their homes.
Local sources revealed that the attackers made an attempt to assault Gurum village near the Kodai area on Tuesday night. However, community members and local vigilante groups reportedly repelled the assault, bolstered by heightened security patrols in response to the ongoing violence.
Abubakar Adamu, another resident, expressed grave concern about the persistent violence, describing it as a significant threat to peace and stability in the area. He emphasized the challenges posed to agricultural activities, particularly during the farming and harvest seasons, which are vital for the livelihoods of many residents.
As of the latest update, security authorities had not issued an official statement regarding the incidents, and efforts to establish the total number of casualties were still underway.
