Bandits attack eight communities in Taraba, 10 people freed

Suspected bandits have attacked eight communities in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State. This has limited the movement of the residents in these areas.

The affected communities are Kommodoro, Telejugu, Paskari, Farin-Ruwa, Dinya, Jamaga, Macijin Kirya, and Chibi. These places share borders with Plateau and Bauchi states.

A community leader, Tanko Bobbo, said the armed groups have created fear among the residents. He mentioned that the people feel helpless in the face of these attacks.

Mr Bobbo also stated that 10 out of 15 people who were recently kidnapped in the area have been freed. He did not share how they were released or if any ransom was paid.

He mentioned that the bandits operate from forest hideouts in nearby Plateau State. Mr Bobbo claimed that the attackers invade the communities, steal farm produce, rob shops, and intimidate the residents.

He further alleged that the armed men have sexually abused women and threatened to kill anyone who reports their activities to security agents. This has made the residents scared to report attacks or ask for help from the police.

The situation got worse on Thursday when two farmers were attacked in different incidents near the Taraba-Plateau border. Mr Bobbo said one farmer was shot while heading to his farm between Jebjeb and Kampani, a border community.

He added that another farmer was attacked with a machete at about 9 a.m. on the same day. The attacks are causing serious concern among the farmers in the area.

Mr Bobbo praised the Taraba State Government for its efforts in addressing the security issues. He said the government has mobilised local hunters, provided support, and directed security forces to protect weaker border communities.

He also noted that the government is working with neighboring states to remove the armed groups from their forest hideouts. This cooperation is hoped to improve security in the region.

Residents of Kommodoro recently told community leaders that the armed groups have become too strong, making them vulnerable to more attacks and intimidation. They are seeking help in dealing with the situation.

However, the police have said they are still trying to confirm the details of the reported incidents. The Taraba State Police Public Relations Officer, Victor Mshelizah, mentioned he was reaching out to the divisional police officer in Old Muri for more information.

Mr Mshelizah also stated that the DPO in Karim-Lamido had no record of the reported incidents at the time of this report.