Crime

See The Numbers of Farmers Killed As Herders Attack Farming Community In Taraba

Published by Tope Fakinlede on June 17th, 2024.

See The Numbers of Farmers Killed As Herders Attack Farming Community In Taraba

Six Dead in Taraba Following Attack on Farming Community

In Taraba State’s Bali local government area, six individuals, including a 92-year-old man, were killed, and several others injured during an attack by suspected herders on the farming community of Mararaban Azagwa, Maihura.

The incident occurred on Sunday, targeting farmers in Mararaban Azagwa and Alele villages. According to local resident Mallam Isah Abdul, the conflict began when a Fulani man, intoxicated and under the influence of drugs, was found dead on his way home from Maihura market.

“This is a tragic incident. The relatives of the deceased accused the Tiv villagers of being responsible for his death,” Abdul reported. “There was no clear evidence of foul play; the man might have died from complications related to his substance use. However, his relatives believed he was murdered and retaliated by attacking and killing people,” he added.

Zaki David Gbaa, Chairman of the Taraba State Tiv Traditional Council, confirmed to journalists in Bali that six individuals were killed and four others critically injured. He identified the deceased as Aondohemba Salemkaan, Tersuugh Dondo, Terkuma Mbatim, Kumaga Ujam, Asaaga Nev, and Tersoo Memga.

While condemning the attack, Gbaa praised the swift action of security agencies in stabilizing the situation. He expressed optimism that the attackers, being locals, would be apprehended and brought to justice.

Taraba State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Gambo Kwache, verified the attack in a phone interview, but noted that only two bodies had been recovered by the police. He mentioned that no arrests had been made yet, but security personnel are actively searching for the perpetrators.