Troops Foil Another Attack by Plateau militia on Cattle in Plateau Community
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) have reportedly foiled an attack on cattle following sporadic gunshots around Rafin Bauna village in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 1:15 a.m. on May 9 when troops of Sector 3 OPEP responded to a distress call over gunfire in the area.
According to the sources, troops swiftly mobilised to the scene and intervened, forcing suspected armed youths alleged to be from nearby communities to abandon the attack and flee.
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The gunmen were said to have opened fire towards a Fulani cattle settlement close to Rafin Bauna village before the arrival of troops.
“The intervention of troops compelled the attackers to withdraw, while the herders and their cattle fled into surrounding mountainous areas for safety,” a security source said.
The sources added that efforts were ongoing by the herders to ascertain whether any of the cattle sustained injuries during the incident.
Security operatives have since intensified patrols in the general area to prevent further escalation and maintain calm between farming and pastoral communities.
The latest development comes amid renewed security operations aimed at curbing recurring attacks, cattle rustling and reprisal violence in parts of Plateau State, particularly Bassa, Riyom, Barkin Ladi and adjoining local government areas.