Abuja, Oct 29:
At least 62 people were killed and 52 injured when gunmen attacked the Binnari community in Nigeria’s northeastern Taraba state, according to the state emergency management agency.
The attack on Friday triggered panic as residents fled their homes to escape the gunmen. Thousands of people were displaced, while emergency teams and security personnel continued efforts to account for victims.
Authorities said 52 bodies had been recovered, including 15 from the Benue River. The reported death toll could rise as recovery operations continue and additional victims are identified.
Amnesty International Nigeria said residents fleeing the attackers were driven towards the river, with many jumping into the water in an attempt to escape.
Police remained at the scene to search for missing residents and establish the circumstances surrounding the attack. The assailants were described as bandits, armed groups responsible for repeated attacks on civilians, kidnappings for ransom and violence linked to illegal mining activities.
Nigeria continues to face serious security challenges from armed criminal groups and Islamist militant organisations, including Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province.
The latest attack has intensified concerns over civilian safety in the country’s northeastern region, where communities remain vulnerable to armed violence and displacement.