By Correspondent in Jalingo.
The Police Command Taraba State says it has launched an investigation into a deadly attack on Magami and Munga Lelau villages in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area, where more than 20 people were reportedly killed on Friday afternoon.
In a statement, Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO for the Command,SP James Lashen, confirmed that violence broke out around 2:30 p.m. after a 15-year-old boy, Isah Ishaku, was allegedly attacked with a machete while working on his family’s farm.
Shortly afterward, armed men suspected to be herders reportedly stormed the area on motorcycles, setting homes on fire and attacking residents.
“A joint police team, led by the Divisional Police Officer, responded promptly but came under heavy attack.
The officers managed to repel the assailants, who fled into nearby bushes, leaving behind one of their motorcycles,” Lashen said.
Our correspondent gathered that the violence, which spread across at least seven villages, including parts of Munga Lelau and Magami, resulted in multiple casualties.
According to residents, many of the victims were caught unawares during their daily routines, with some returning from their farms when the attackers struck.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and confusion as families fled to nearby communities for safety.
Several injured victims have been taken to hospitals for treatment, while security forces have been deployed to the affected areas to prevent further violence.
The Reporters learned that mass burials for the victims took place on Saturday under tight security.
Community leaders and residents have called for urgent intervention to prevent a recurrence.
Reacting to the development,Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, condemned, describing it as “unacceptable and deeply troubling.”
In a statement issued by his media aide, Emmanuel Bello, the governor expressed condolences to the affected families and assured them of the government’s commitment to strengthening security in rural areas.
“No community should have to live in fear or face such levels of violence,” the governor said.
Police say investigations are ongoing and called on anyone with useful information to assist in tracking down those responsible.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
