Four Minors Killed As Cattle Rustling Sparks Violence
By SANI BATURE
Children Killed as Reprisal Violence Flares in Plateau
FOUR children were killed on Thursday in a reprisal attack allegedly carried out by suspected Fulani herdsmen in Dorong village, Foron District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State, as tensions escalated over recent cattle rustling incidents.
The victims were identified as Precious Joshuah (17), Isa’ac Joshuah (9), Mary Joshuah (7), and Eve Sambo (3).
Attack Linked to Cattle Rustling
Local sources said the killings occurred less than 48 hours after coordinated attacks on pastoral communities across Barkin Ladi, Jos East, and Riyom LGAs, where at least 168 cattle were rustled and several others poisoned.
On Wednesday evening, about 137 cattle were reportedly rustled around the Nding community in Fan District of Barkin Ladi, while 34 cattle were taken from Kukukah community in Jos East, with only three later recovered.
Poisoned Grazing Lands Deepen Tension
Tension further intensified when nine cows reportedly died after grazing on poisoned substances around Kwi village in Riyom LGA, raising fears of imminent retaliation.
A community leader in Foron District, who requested anonymity, said residents had anticipated violence.
“The atmosphere has been extremely tense. People warned that reprisals would follow if the situation was not addressed,” the source said.
Security Deployment, Calls for Intervention
Security sources confirmed the Dorong incident and said troops and other operatives had been deployed to prevent further escalation.
Residents and civil groups have renewed calls on the Plateau State Government and security agencies to arrest perpetrators on all sides and address the root causes of the recurring violence, warning that failure to act could lead to further loss of innocent lives.
Authorities had yet to issue an official statement at the time of filing this report.
