Bandit Attack in Taraba Claims Over 50 Lives

On Friday, an attack by gunmen suspected to be bandits in Binnari town, Karim-Lamdo Local Government Area, Taraba State, resulted in the deaths of over 50 individuals, including women and children. Reports indicate that 51 bodies were buried on Saturday, with one more recovered on Sunday, totaling 52 fatalities.

Amnesty International Nigeria reported 40 deaths, while the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Victor Mshelizah, stated that only 10 were killed. The search for additional bodies continues, with many still missing.

Jibri Dabo, a local boat operator, led divers who recovered 41 bodies from the river, where many drowned while fleeing the attack. The bandits invaded shortly after Jumm’at prayers, firing indiscriminately and causing panic.

Dabo noted that the bandits operated for nearly three hours, killing and looting without interruption. Amnesty International condemned the attack, calling for an impartial investigation and justice for the victims, criticizing the authorities for their inadequate response to rural security.