By Kate Thomas –
ABUJA, Nigeria — At least 34 people were reported to have died after gunmen armed with explosives set fire to a cattle market in northeastern Nigeria, according to local media Thursday.
According to Nigerian television reports, a hospital in the town of Potiskum, in Yobe state — where the market is located — has received 34 bodies following the blaze.
Speaking to the Nigerian News Agency, police spokesman Toyin Gbadegeshin confirmed Wednesday evening’s attack.
“Gunmen using rifles and explosive devices attacked the cattle market in Potiskum,” Gbadegeshin said.
“Over 20 explosive devices and guns were used in the attack on the market,” he said.
Gbadegeshin said police were unable to confirm the number of dead and wounded in the attack, which follows the murder of three cattle traders at the same market earlier this week.
Several reports said the death toll was expected to rise.
Police recovered an AK-47 rifle from the scene.
