Five traders have reportedly lost their lives, while several others sustained injuries after a military vehicle crashed into traders at Peva Market in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon, leaving traders and residents of the community in mourning.
According to reports, the military vehicle, attached to the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Wukari, was escorting traders travelling from Wukari to Takum to provide security along the route, which has witnessed recurring incidents of kidnapping and killings.
A resident, Tony David, who confirmed the incident, said the victims were traders who had displayed their goods along the roadside when the military vehicle reportedly lost control and rammed into them.
He said five people died in the crash, while several others suffered varying degrees of injuries.
The deceased and injured victims were reportedly evacuated to Takum General Hospital, where the injured received medical attention and the bodies of those who died were taken for necessary procedures.
The incident has generated grief among residents and traders, with calls for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
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There have also been unverified allegations that the driver of the military vehicle was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. However, the allegation had not been independently confirmed at the time of reporting.
The affected market is located within the Chanchanji Ward area, a community that has faced persistent security challenges, including kidnapping and violent attacks.
When contacted, Lieutenant Umar Mohammed, Acting Public Relations Officer of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Jalingo, said he was looking into the incident and promised to provide further information.
The Taraba State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Victor Mshelizah, also confirmed awareness of the incident, saying he had seen reports about it on social media.
Mshelizah said he would contact the Divisional Police Officer in Takum to verify the casualty figure and obtain more details about the incident.
The exact circumstances surrounding the crash and the confirmed number of casualties are expected to become clearer as authorities conclude their assessment.
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