62 killed by 'bandits' in Nigeria; 15 bodies recovered from Benue River

ABUJA: 62 people were killed in a shooting carried out by an armed group in northeastern Nigeria. Many sustained injuries, while authorities reported that thousands of people fled their homes. According to reports, the attack was perpetrated by an armed criminal group locally known as "bandits."

The incident occurred on October 24 in Binnari village, located within the Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of ​​Taraba State. Data released by Nigeria's National Emergency Management Agency indicated that 52 people were injured. Authorities stated that search operations for missing persons are ongoing and that the death toll could potentially rise.

Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International’s Nigerian section, stated that many people jumped into the Benue River while attempting to escape the attack, and that 15 bodies have since been recovered from the river. He added that the attackers had driven those trying to escape toward the river.

Criminal gangs in Nigeria are frequently kidnapping citizens to demand ransom or force them to work in illegal mining sites. Extremist organisations, such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province, also pose significant security challenges within the country.