The Taraba State Police Command has confirmed a deadly ambush attack on residents of Kofai Amadu community in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.

The incident occurred on Thursday at about 4:00 p.m. in a busy trading hub where farmers, traders, and other residents were carrying out normal commercial activities.

Eyewitnesses said panic broke out when gunshots suddenly rang out from a nearby bush close to the yam market area, forcing people to flee in different directions for safety. The sudden attack disrupted business activities as farmers returning from their farms and traders in the market scrambled for cover.

Amid the confusion, some residents later reported sighting armed men moving around a nearby settlement about two kilometres from the market area. Shortly after, the lifeless body of a young man with gunshot wounds was discovered, prompting community members to alert security operatives who later arrived at the scene.

Residents have since called on security agencies to strengthen surveillance in the area and ensure those responsible are apprehended.

Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, Victor Mshelizah, said he was briefed about an ambush on individuals who had gone to their homes in the crisis-affected area to retrieve belongings.

He added that the victims were allegedly attacked by armed men described as Fulani militia, noting that one person was shot and confirmed dead by a medical doctor.

According to him, the area has been brought under control and normalcy has been restored, while investigations into the attack are ongoing.