Tragedy Strikes Taraba Village As Dane Gun Misfire Claims Lives Of Three Children (Photos)

A somber atmosphere envelops Didango Gaita village in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State as three children lost their lives and four others sustained injuries in a tragic incident involving the accidental discharge of a dane gun.

Confirming the heartbreaking event on Sunday, March 31, 2024, Taraba State Police Commissioner, CP David Iloyonomon, dispelled initial speculations of a terrorist attack, clarifying that the fatalities resulted from the mishandling of a firearm rather than an explosive device.

According to CP Iloyonomon, investigations by law enforcement revealed that the unfortunate incident occurred while the children were innocently playing with a dane gun affixed to a tree within their father's rice farm. Tragically, the gunpowder within the firearm exploded, causing fatal injuries to the children, all below the age of 12.

The sudden loss of lives plunged the village into a state of panic, with residents fearing the worst amid concerns of a potential terrorist strike. However, the police commissioner reiterated that the incident was a tragic accident rather than an act of terrorism.

Among the casualties were Miracle Danjuma, 11 years old; Liyacheyan Bitrus, 12 years old; and Kefas Bitrus, 11 years old, with the first casualty identified as the son of the individual who reported the incident, Danjuma Audu.

Further investigations revealed that the four injured children, identified as Joseph Danjuma, 8; Leah Aluda, 8; Godbless Hassan, 7; and Christian Hassan, 7, sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving medical attention at the state's specialist hospital in Jalingo.

The tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by the mishandling of firearms, prompting authorities to emphasize the importance of firearm safety and responsible ownership within communities. The Taraba State Police Commissioner assured the public of ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of all residents, urging vigilance and cooperation in preventing similar tragedies in the future.