’17 killed’, many injured as gunmen attack IDPs in Taraba community

At least 17 people have been reportedly killed by suspectedJukun militia who launched a coordinated attack on returning InternallyDisplaced Persons (IDPs) in Tse Ajogo village, Wukari LGA, Taraba state. According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-terrorismpublication, eight others were injured during the attack on Wednesday, December10. The publication said the attackers invaded the village atabout 6am, firing sporadically at residents and IDPs, adding that severalothers remain unaccounted for, while seven houses were set ablaze during theassault. Makama reported that sources familiar with the incident saidthe attack is the second on returning IDPs in Tse Ajogo within a two-monthperiod. The village, located approximately four kilometres fromRafin Kada town, has been described as highly vulnerable to militia invasion. The report noted that the assailants were heavily armed andcoordinated their attack to inflict maximum damage and disrupt resettlementefforts. Authorities have called for heightened vigilance in the areaand urged troops to sustain patrols along key routes to protect resettlingcommunities. Security operatives are working to track and neutralise theattackers. Residents of Tiv communities in Taraba have been advised toremain cautious and report any suspicious movements to authorities, whileprayers have been offered for peace to return to the affected areas. When Abdullahi Usman, spokesperson of theTaraba police command, was contacted on the report, he said a new PRO has just been appointedand promised to share the officer’s contact. He was yet to do so as of presstime.

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