Many killed in fresh attacks on Taraba communities

Several people have been killed following fresh attacks on communities in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State by suspected armed militia. Residents said the violence began three days ago in Didango village, where gunmen reportedly ambushed a group of youths returning home after watching an English Premier League match at a viewing centre, killing two young men. Sources in the area said the attacks later spread to Gaita, Loba and Lewatha villages in what appeared to be coordinated assaults, forcing many residents to flee into surrounding bushes for safety. A resident of Mayo-Gauro village, located a few kilometres from Didango, Mr Dauda Bulus, told Daily Trust that the attacks were coordinated and allegedly carried out by armed militia from a neighbouring community. He said the affected communities had experienced repeated attacks over the years. Another resident of Didango, who requested anonymity for security reasons, alleged that the attackers ambushed a group of farmers returning from their farms, leaving several people injured. According to him, the assailants later launched attacks on other communities, resulting in additional casualties. It was further gathered that the attackers attempted another assault on Gurum village near the Kodai area on Tuesday night but encountered resistance from local vigilante groups and community members who have intensified security patrols in response to the recurring violence. Mr Abubakar Adamu, another resident of the area, expressed concern that the repeated attacks were threatening peace and stability in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area. He said that despite several peace meetings and dialogue efforts among the affected communities, attacks continued to occur. “The attacks often happen during the farming and harvest seasons, disrupting agricultural activities, which remain the main source of livelihood for many people in the area,” he said. When contacted, the Chairperson of Karim-Lamido Local Government Council, Mrs Virginia Baba Bambur, confirmed the attacks but said calm had returned to the affected communities. She stated that the council was working with relevant stakeholders and security agencies to restore lasting peace in the area. “We are working round the clock to ensure that Karim-Lamido remains peaceful,” she said. The spokesperson of the Taraba State Police Command, ASP Victor Mshelizah, said he was unable to immediately obtain a situation report from the Divisional Police Officer in Karim-Lamido due to communication challenges. He said further details would be provided after receiving updates from officers on the ground.