Two injured as youths clash in Jalingo

A violent clash involving youths from Ruby and Nyabukaka communities in Jalingo, Taraba State, has left two people injured, with reports that one of the victims had his hand completely severed during the incident.

The incident, which reportedly occurred on Wednesday night, has heightened concerns over growing youth violence and insecurity in Jalingo metropolis.

Confirming the incident, the Taraba State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Victor Mshelizah, said some youths armed with sticks and cutlasses attacked unsuspecting passersby and inflicted injuries on them.

According to him, the attackers also blocked the road with stones, disrupting movement before a police patrol team was dispatched to the scene.

He explained that the suspects fled upon sighting the police patrol vehicles, while two injured persons were evacuated to a medical facility for treatment.

The police spokesperson added that investigations were ongoing to establish the motive behind the attack and identify those responsible, assuring that efforts were being made to arrest the suspects.

The incident has renewed calls for urgent intervention by parents, community leaders and the Taraba State Government to address youth violence and prevent further breakdown of peace in the affected communities.

Residents have also been urged to embrace dialogue, promote peaceful coexistence and discourage acts capable of escalating tensions between communities.

The latest incident has once again raised questions about the growing involvement of youths in violent confrontations and the need for proactive measures to protect lives and property in Jalingo, the state capital.