42 bodies recovered as many still missing in Taraba attack
A dark cloud of sorrow enveloped the Munga Lalau and Munga Doso communities in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State on Saturday, as mourning families and neighbors gathered to bury the remains of dozens of residents slain in a horrific overnight attack believed to have been carried out by armed herdsmen, as reported by The
The villages, once known for their calm and communal harmony, have now become symbols of grief and devastation. The deadly assault began in the early hours of Friday morning, around 2am, when armed men descended upon the sleeping communities, leaving a trail of destruction and death in their wake.
According to accounts from survivors and local security forces, the attackers numbering more than 50 arrived on motorcycles under the cover of darkness.
Without warning, they began shooting indiscriminately at homes where families were asleep, catching the villagers completely off guard. The sudden burst of gunfire and screams shattered the silence of the night, plunging the communities into chaos and panic.
One eyewitness recounted that many victims were shot at close range, some while attempting to flee, and others as they tried to shield their loved ones.
The attackers moved swiftly from house to house, setting structures ablaze and leaving behind scenes of unimaginable horror.
The full extent of the tragedy became apparent with daylight. Lifeless bodies lay scattered across courtyards, footpaths, and farmland. Survivors, many of whom had hidden in the bushes through the night, emerged in shock, trying to piece together what had just happened.
As the sun rose on Saturday, heart-wrenching scenes unfolded as families, accompanied by neighbors and sympathizers, conducted mass burials.
Tears flowed freely as coffins were lowered into the ground. The air was filled with cries of anguish, prayers for justice, and the haunting silence of lives cut short.
A soldier involved in the rescue and recovery efforts told FCNN that, “We have counted 42 bodies so far, with many still missing.”
In the wake of the massacre, the community leaders have called for immediate intervention from both the state and federal governments. They are demanding justice, increased security presence, and support for those displaced by the violence.
