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At least five Fulani youths were reportedly killed by suspected Berom militias while returning from Dorowan Babuje in Barkin Ladi LGA of Plateau state.
According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, the victims – Tahiru Muhammad, Jibrin Salisu and Abdulmumin Isyak – were ambushed at about 7pm on Thursday while travelling through the Jong Fulani community.
Makama said one of the victims was reportedly beheaded, while others were shot dead.
Citing security sources, the publication said empty 7.62mm special cartridges and a motorcycle were recovered at the scene, adding that security personnel had been deployed to track down the perpetrators.
Makama noted that on February 11, six cows were reportedly poisoned at Tulus and Rwam villages in Mushere district, Bokkos LGA.
Makama said suspected Birom militia members also attacked Fulani settlements in Tulus and Horop villages, setting ablaze two houses belonging to Kadiri Adamu and Hashimu Adamu.
According to the publication, the recent incidents reflect a disturbing pattern of systematic attacks on pastoral assets across the state.
Makama added that on February 2, one cow was shot dead at Weren camp in Riyom LGA, while three others were reportedly poisoned in Kwi village after toxic substances were concealed in oranges and placed along grazing fields.
The publication quoted veterinary sources as saying the method suggested deliberate targeting.
It added that on December 16, armed Fulani bandits reportedly attacked an illegal mining site at Tosho community in Fan district, Barkin Ladi LGA, allegedly attempting to recover previously rustled cattle.
The attack resulted in 12 people dead, three abducted and several injured, further escalating tensions.
Makama said cumulative intelligence suggests an escalation cycle in which livestock poisoning leads to rustling, triggering retaliatory raids and civilian casualties.
The publication added that armed militias and bandit groups are exploiting grievances, while weak deterrence has allowed non-state actors to operate as de facto security forces in some rural areas.
