Several people have been killed following fresh attacks by suspected armed militia on communities in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, according to residents and local sources.
The violence reportedly began three days ago in Didango village, where gunmen ambushed a group of young men returning home after watching an English Premier League match at a viewing centre. Residents said two youths were killed during the attack.
The attacks later spread to Gaita, Loba and Lewatha villages in what residents described as coordinated assaults. The renewed violence forced many villagers to flee their homes and seek refuge in nearby bushes.
A resident of Mayo-Gauro village, Dauda Bulus, alleged that the attacks were carried out by armed militia from a neighbouring community. He said the affected communities had endured repeated attacks over the years, resulting in deaths, displacement of residents and destruction of property.
Inside Taraba State:
Military Crushes Planned Militia Attacks in Taraba Communities
NDLEA Intercepts Illicit Drugs Hidden in Imported Machines
Truck Crash at Gombe Market Kills Female Police Officer, Pedestrian
Another resident from Didango claimed that a group of farmers returning from their farms was also ambushed by the attackers, leaving several people injured. According to him, the assailants subsequently launched attacks on additional communities, causing more casualties and forcing residents to abandon their homes.
Sources in the area further disclosed that the attackers attempted to strike Gurum village near the Kodai area on Tuesday night. However, local vigilante groups and community members reportedly repelled the assault after increasing security patrols in response to the recurring violence.
Speaking on the situation, resident Abubakar Adamu expressed concern over the persistent attacks, warning that the violence poses a serious threat to peace and stability in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area.
He noted that despite several peace meetings and dialogue efforts involving the affected communities, the attacks have continued. Adamu added that the violence often occurs during farming and harvest seasons, disrupting agricultural activities, which serve as the primary source of livelihood for many residents.
As of the time of filing this report, security authorities had not issued an official statement on the latest attacks, while efforts to determine the exact number of casualties were still ongoing.
About the Author
