Attack death toll rises to 50

The death toll from an attack on a rural village in eastern Nigeria has increased to 50 after survivors told AFP on Sunday that new bodies were found. The attack occurred when armed men, believed to be part of a criminal gang known locally as "bandits," arrived by motorcycle and stormed the village of Binnari in Taraba State on Friday.

Bandits loot and kill in northeast

The armed men killed dozens of people and looted shops during the attack. The northeast of Nigeria has long been affected by a jihadist insurgency, while Taraba State, in the east, is dealing with "bandit" groups driven by financial gain rather than ideological motives.

Bodies found in river after attack

A resident of Binnari, Bashir Mamuda Musa, said that seven bodies were found immediately after the attack on Friday. The next day, 43 more bodies were discovered in a river, raising the total death toll to 50. Survivors had previously reported a death toll of 20 on Saturday.

Fleeing villagers drown in river

Many residents, including women and children, fled to the river in an attempt to escape the armed men. However, several people drowned while trying to escape the attack, according to Zakari, who spoke to AFP.

Bandits expand their reach in Nigeria

The bandits are a growing threat in Nigeria, especially in the northwest and central regions. These powerful gangs are challenging an overburdened police and military in remote rural areas. They attack villages and impose taxes on farmers and mining operations where state presence is weak.

Human rights group condemns inaction

Amnesty International Nigeria criticized the government for leaving rural communities, especially in the North, vulnerable to armed bandits who commit atrocities without facing consequences. The organization noted that the failure to hold perpetrators accountable contributes to a culture of impunity.