By Sabiu Abdullahi
A community hunters’ leader and member of the Forest Guard Corps, Shuayibu Danladi Ciroma, has died after sustaining a gunshot wound during a clash with suspected bandits in Andamin community, Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.
Ciroma was reportedly part of a joint security team that mobilised on Monday evening after receiving intelligence about a planned attack on the community.
In a statement dated October 13, 2026, the community leader, Tanko Bobbo Andamin, said the team comprised military personnel and local hunters who set out to prevent the suspected attack but encountered armed men along the way.
“A joint team of military personnel and hunters mobilised towards the area to prevent the suspected attack but encountered the armed men along the way, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire,” the statement said.
Ciroma reportedly sustained a gunshot wound to his leg during the exchange and lost a significant amount of blood.
The statement said the team returned to its base after the confrontation but later discovered that Ciroma was missing. A search party returned to the scene early the following morning and found his body.
Andamin mourned the deceased, describing him as a man who died defending his people, land and humanity. He also extended condolences to Ciroma’s family, the Andamin community and fellow hunters.
The community leader called on the Taraba State Government, security agencies and intelligence authorities to strengthen security operations in the area.
He expressed concern that persistent insecurity had disrupted residents’ livelihoods, with many reportedly unable to travel safely to their farms, visit markets in neighbouring communities or conduct routine business without fear of attacks.
According to the statement, the situation had worsened poverty, hunger and starvation as residents’ economic activities continued to suffer.
The community also alleged that armed groups initially entered Taraba from neighbouring states but had since moved closer to local settlements.
It called for urgent, coordinated security measures to protect lives and property, restore peace and rebuild public confidence.
When contacted, the Taraba State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Victor Mshelizah, said poor network connectivity had prevented him from reaching the Divisional Police Officer for details of the incident.
He promised to provide further information after establishing contact with the officer.
