BREAKING: Dozens Feared Killed As Bandits Attack Taraba Community, Burn Houses
About 30 people are feared dead following an attack by suspected bandits on Binnari community in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, with several houses reportedly burnt and food crops destroyed.
The attack occurred shortly after Friday’s Juma’at prayers on October 23, leaving children and elderly people among the reported victims. Several residents were also forced to flee their homes for safety.
While residents put the death toll at about 30, the Taraba State Police Command said security operatives had recovered 10 bodies as of Friday evening. Residents, however, reported that more bodies were discovered on Saturday morning, raising fears that the death toll could increase.
Some residents also expressed concern that several people remained missing following the attack.
Local sources told Ibom Focus that the attackers might have entered the community from neighbouring Plateau State. However, this claim has not been independently verified, and the identities of the assailants remain unknown.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Taraba State Command, ASP Victor Mshelizah, said preliminary findings indicated that the attackers initially targeted food items and other valuables.
“There was an incident like that yesterday, immediately after Friday’s prayers.
“From the preliminary report, it was revealed that the people initially came to steal food stuff and other valuables,” he said.
Mshelizah confirmed that 10 bodies had been recovered as of Friday evening, adding that the identities of the attackers had yet to be established.
He assured residents that the police would intensify efforts to protect lives and property across the state.
The attack has heightened concerns over insecurity in rural communities in Karim Lamido and other parts of Taraba State, as affected residents mourn their loved ones and grapple with the destruction of their homes and food supplies.
Residents are calling for stronger security measures to prevent further attacks and protect vulnerable communities.
