At least 48 people were killed and several others missing as bandits struck Binnari community located in the Karim-Lamido local government area of Taraba State.

The state police spokesperson, Victor Mshelizah, who spoke to the Peoples Gazette on Tuesday, said the incident happened on Friday.

“It was a bandit attack actually on the village which happened to be on the market day,” Mr Mshelizah stated. “Due to the terrain and the distance from the headquarters to the scene, it’s a bit difficult for us to get there early.”

He noted that a combined team of police and soldiers were deployed, adding the perpetrators had left before their arrival.

He added, “Then we dispersed team of police officers with the support from the army. But before the security personnel got there, the damage has been done. We were able to recover 10 bodies with gunshots wounds on Friday.

“The following day on Saturday, we got another 15 bodies later found out to be people trying to run away from the incident. From Saturday morning till Sunday afternoon, we recovered addition 23 bodies from the river bank and nearby bushes. The number of casualties currently at our disposal is 48.”

According to Mr Mshelizah, houses, motorcycles were burnt and shops looted.

The police spokesperson, however, noted that there were security agents on ground, adding that arrangements were ongoing for more deployments.

“We have officers on search and rescue combing the bushes for more bodies and others hunting for the perpetrators. Officers have also been deployed to ensure the safety of villagers,” he added.

The development exposed attacks on several communities across the country, highlighting the need for the government to deepen surveillance and secure the people.