No fewer than three herders were killed and two others injured in a fresh attack around Bangai community in Riyom Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State.

The Secretary of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Riyom LGA, Yahaya Musa, confirmed the incident, adding that 14 cattle were killed while four others were injured.

Musa said the incident occurred at about 2:30 p.m. while the herders were tending their cattle in the area.

The herding community condemned the attack and called on security agencies to investigate the incident, identify those responsible and bring them to justice.

The Fulani Community In Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State also condemned the attack, which it said occurred on August 6, 2026, at about 2:30 p.m. around Bangai community.

The MACBAN Secretary alleged that the attackers were suspected Berom militia members from Anguwan Weren in Rim Ward.

“According to information available to the community, the attack was carried out by suspected Berom militias from Anguwan Weren in Rim Ward. The incident resulted in the loss of lives, serious injuries, and the destruction of livestock belonging to innocent herders,” Musa said.

He Identified the deceased as Ismail Idris, 15; Hamza Aminu, 17; and Jafar Umar, 17, while Ango Ibrahim, 14, and Abdullahi Buhari, 20, sustained injuries and were taken to hospital.

He added: “In addition to the human casualties, 18 cattle were reportedly shot, with 14 killed and 4 seriously injured, causing significant economic hardship to the affected families who depend on livestock for their livelihood.

“We call on the Plateau State Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to immediately investigate this incident, arrest anyone found responsible, and ensure they are brought to justice in accordance with the law. Prompt and impartial action is essential to prevent further violence and restore confidence among all communities.

“We also urge all members of the affected community to remain calm, avoid any form of retaliation, and allow the security agencies to carry out their responsibilities. Lasting peace can only be achieved through justice, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.

“The Fulani Community remains committed to peaceful coexistence with all ethnic and religious groups in Riyom Local Government Area and calls on all stakeholders to work together to end the cycle of violence affecting innocent civilians,” he added.

Responding to the allegation, the spokesperson of the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), Rwang Tengwong, denied any involvement by members of the group.

In a telephone interview, Tengwong said the group was not aware of the incident, adding that its members knew nothing about the attack.

Efforts to obtain official confirmation from the spokesman of the Plateau State Police Command, SP Alfred Alabo, and the Media Information Officer of Operation Enduring Peace, Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, were unsuccessful, as inquiries by our correspondent had not received responses as of press time. (Daily Trust)

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