30 Killed As Bandits Attack Taraba Community

About 30 people have reportedly been killed in an attack by suspected bandits on Binnari community in Karim Lamido local government area of Taraba State, with several houses burnt and food crops destroyed.

The attack, which occurred shortly after Friday’s Juma’at prayers on October 23, reportedly claimed the lives of children and elderly persons, while several residents fled their homes for safety.

However, the Taraba State Police Command said only 10 bodies had been recovered as of Friday evening, while residents reported that more bodies were discovered on Saturday morning.

Some residents also expressed fears that several victims remained missing following the attack.

LEADERSHIP Sunday gathered from local sources that the assailants might have entered the community from neighbouring Plateau State, although the claim has not been independently verified as well as their identities.

The attack has compounded the hardship facing residents, many of whom are now mourning lost relatives and struggling to recover from the destruction of their homes and food supplies.

Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Taraba State Command, ASP Victor Mshelizah, said preliminary information 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.

ASP Mshelizah stated that security operatives had recovered 10 bodies as of Friday evening, as the identities of the attackers had yet to be established.

He assured residents that the police would continue to intensify efforts to protect lives and property of the people.

LEADERSHIP Sunday reports that, the attack has further renewed concerns over the vulnerability of rural communities in Karim Lamido and other parts of Taraba State to armed violence, with residents calling for stronger security measures to prevent further attacks.