At least five people have been confirmed dead following a retaliatory attack in Kwi community, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, after several cows belonging to Fulani herdsmen were reportedly shot dead by suspected Berom militants.
The incident was contained in a post shared by security analyst Zagazola Makama on Saturday on X.
According to Makama, the initial attack occurred at around 4:45 pm on Thursday, October 30, when armed youths invaded grazing areas in Kwi and opened fire on the herders’ livestock.
“More than a dozen cows died, while several others suffered gunshot and machete wounds,” Makama wrote.
Security sources said the attack on cattle sparked a swift retaliation later that night, resulting in the deaths of five people in the same area.
“The attackers shot more than ten cows and slaughtered some. In the evening, there was a counterattack that left five people dead,” Makama added.
The situation has reportedly created tension in the area, forcing residents to flee their homes in search of safety.
Operation Safe Haven troops and other security agencies have since been deployed to restore peace and prevent further violence.