A deadly attack by suspected bandits on Binnari community in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State has reportedly claimed 52 lives, including women and children, while several residents remain missing.
The attack occurred on Friday, shortly after Muslim worshippers concluded their Jumm’at prayers, when gunmen reportedly stormed the community and opened fire on residents and traders at the market.
According to local accounts, many people fleeing the violence ran towards the Binnari River, where several reportedly drowned while attempting to escape. A local boat operator said divers recovered 41 bodies from the river during search operations.
Residents said 51 victims were buried on Saturday, while another body was recovered on Sunday, bringing the reported death toll to 52. However, casualty figures remain disputed, as Amnesty International reported at least 40 deaths, while the Taraba State Police Command put the number at 10.
Several others sustained gunshot injuries, including a six-month-old baby who was shot in the foot while fleeing with his mother. Injured victims were taken to nearby medical facilities, with those suffering serious wounds referred to hospitals in Mutum Biyu and Jalingo.
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Witnesses also alleged that the attackers looted shops, stole motorcycles, cash and food items, and operated for several hours before security personnel arrived. The attack has forced residents to flee to neighbouring communities as the search for missing persons continues.
Amnesty International condemned the killings and called for an impartial investigation, improved protection for vulnerable communities and the prosecution of those responsible.
In response, Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas directed security agencies to take urgent action to restore peace, protect lives and property, and apprehend the perpetrators. Senator representing Taraba North, Shuaibu Isa Lau, also condemned the attack and called for the resettlement of displaced residents and the provision of relief materials.
The Taraba State Emergency Management Agency has commenced an assessment of the affected community and distributed relief items, including foodstuffs, mattresses and blankets, to support displaced families.
Meanwhile, security analysts have attributed the attack to gaps in intelligence sharing, inadequate forest surveillance, difficult terrain and poor coordination among neighbouring states. They have called for stronger regional security cooperation and community-based early-warning systems to prevent further violence.
As residents mourn their dead and search for missing loved ones, concerns are growing over the safety of rural communities in Taraba State and the urgent need for stronger security measures.
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