- Four children killed in a deadly reprisal attack in Plateau State
- Attack occurred in Barkin Ladi LGA, early Thursday morning
- Rising tension linked to cattle rustling in nearby communities
- Security forces deployed to prevent further violence
At least four children have been killed in a reprisal attack allegedly carried out by suspected herders in Dorong village, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, deepening fears over escalating violence in the region.
The tragic incident occurred on Thursday morning in Dorong village, located in the Foron district of Barkin Ladi LGA, according to reports by counter-insurgency analyst Zagazola Makama.
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Security sources said the attack was allegedly carried out by armed Fulani herdsmen, following growing tensions triggered by recent cattle rustling and attacks on pastoral communities in the area.
The victims were identified as Precious Joshuah (17), Isa’ac Joshuah (9), Mary Joshuah (7), and Eve Sambo (3).
Makama noted that the killings happened less than 48 hours after coordinated assaults on herding settlements across Barkin Ladi, Jos East, and Riyom LGAs, where at least 168 cattle were reportedly rustled, while several others were poisoned.
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Residents had reportedly been living in fear, warning that reprisal attacks were imminent if urgent action was not taken.
“The atmosphere has been tense for days. People feared reprisals if the situation was not contained. Sadly, those fears have now materialised,” a local source said.
Following the attack, security operatives were deployed to the affected communities to restore calm and prevent further bloodshed.
Authorities are yet to release an official casualty update or confirm any arrests as investigations continue.
