37 killed after bandits launched gunfire assault on Binnari in Nigeria

Suspected bandits attacked Binnari community in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State on Friday, October 23, 2026, killing at least 37 people. The gunmen, reportedly large in number, invaded the village at about 3 p.m. shortly after Jumu'ah prayers, firing sporadically, looting food items from shops, and setting houses and shops ablaze.

The Taraba State Police Command confirmed the attack in a statement issued Saturday by its Public Relations Officer, ASP Victor Mshelizah. Police said operatives recovered 10 bodies bearing gunshot wounds at the scene, which were handed over to families for burial in accordance with Islamic rites. Further searches by community leaders and youths in surrounding bushes and rivers led to the recovery of 37 bodies in total.

The attackers are suspected to have crossed into Taraba from neighbouring Plateau State. Joint reinforcement teams comprising police tactical units, the Police Mobile Force, conventional police, the Nigerian Army, and other security agencies have been deployed to the area to prevent further attacks and maintain public order. The Taraba State Government has yet to issue a statement on the incident.