World
Bandit Attack in Taraba State Leaves 62 Dead, 52 Injured, Thousands Displaced
At least 62 people were killed when bandits attacked the Binnari community in the Karim‑Lamido local government area of Taraba state on Friday, the state’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said Tuesday. The assault also wounded 52 others and displaced thousands, according to Ladan Ayuba, NEMA’s state head. NEMA officials have recovered 52 bodies so far, including 15 from the Benue River, but a Taraba police spokesperson, Victor Mshelizah, said the number is not final as more bodies are still being recovered. Amnesty International Nigeria director Isa Sanusi said the gunmen used the river to their advantage, noting that people were chased toward the water and some tried to escape by launching into it. The incident highlights Nigeria’s ongoing security crisis, where civilians are regularly targeted by bandits who conduct large‑scale kidnappings for ransom, control illegal mine sites, and by Islamist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province.
Frequently asked questions
How many people were killed in the bandit attack in Taraba state?
At least 62 people were killed.
Where did the bandits attack take place?
The Binnari community in the Karim‑Lamido local government area of Taraba state.
How many bodies have been recovered so far?
NEMA officials have recovered 52 bodies so far, including 15 from the Benue River.