10 killed in Taraba attack as residents flee community

Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas

The police in Taraba State have confirmed that 10 people were killed when gunmen attacked Binnari community in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area, while local sources reported that houses were burnt and food supplies destroyed.

The attack occurred in the early hours of Friday in Amar Ward, Karim II Constituency, according to local sources.

The police spokesperson in the state, Victor Mshelizah, confirmed the killings, saying security personnel had been deployed to the affected community.

“There was an incident that happened yesterday, an attack by unknown gunmen that claimed the lives of ten people. We currently have men deployed there,” Mr Mshelizah said.

The police did not provide further details about the circumstances surrounding the attack or identify the perpetrators.

However, local sources said the assailants, suspected to have crossed into the area from neighbouring Plateau State, stormed the community unexpectedly, killing residents and setting houses ablaze.

The sources also said the attackers destroyed foodstuffs reportedly worth millions of naira, leaving residents to count their losses.

According to the local sources, the attack forced several residents to flee their homes and seek refuge in neighbouring communities. Some people were also reportedly missing after the incident.

The sources further alleged that residents made distress calls during the attack but that security assistance arrived too late to prevent the killings and destruction.

The incident has heightened concerns over insecurity in Karim-Lamido, with residents calling on the Taraba State Government and security agencies to strengthen security and prevent further attacks.

The police have yet to publicly provide further details about the attack, including the reported destruction of property and missing persons.