The number of fatalities resulting from repeated assaults on the Rafin Kada–Wukari road in the Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State has climbed to 11. New reports confirm additional victims along this volatile path.
Violence erupted on Tuesday, causing the deaths of six commuters whose vehicle from Donga was targeted by gunfire. This follows the killing of a former Ason Youth Leader who was ambushed while traveling toward Rafin Kada. In the same event, a former councillor managed to survive an attack despite sustaining injuries. Furthermore, three people heading back to Rafin Kada from a Wukari market were also fatally shot on the same road.
These violent encounters occurred between military and police checkpoints, fueling alarm regarding public safety in an area previously thought to be stabilizing. Residents in Rafin Kada are now mourning, and anxiety persists throughout neighboring regions. While Operation Whirl Stroke has previously initiated security measures in the area, the persistent threat remains.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the identities of the 11 victims or the full details of the vehicle attack. Victor Mshelizah, the Taraba State Police spokesperson, noted that efforts to obtain information from the local Divisional Police Officer have been hindered by ongoing telecommunications issues in the region.
