Berom youths poison Nine cattle in unprovoked attack on herders in Barkin Ladi Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Nine cattle have been confirmed dead while three others are in critical condition following a suspected poisoning by Berom Youths in Rakum village, Kassa District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the troops of Sector 4 of Operation Safe Haven responded at about 1625 hrs on April 18 after receiving a report that cattle belonging to one Dauda Jalo had fallen ill and died under suspicious circumstances.
On arrival at the scene, troops discovered nine dead cattle, while three others were still struggling for survival after allegedly grazing on a suspected poisonous substance.
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The affected livestock were found within grazing fields in the community, prompting immediate concern among residents over possible deliberate contamination.
Security sources said preliminary assessment is ongoing to determine the exact substance involved and the circumstances surrounding the incident, while efforts were ongoing to apprehend those involved.
Zagazola report that in several communities across parts Barikin Ladi, Riyom, Mangu among others, pastoralist groups continue to report repeated incidents of livestock poisoning, a situation that has contributed to rising periodic outbreaks of attacks between neighbouring communities.
Security and community sources say that cattle herders in affected areas have, on multiple occasions, recorded sudden deaths of livestock after grazing in contested or poorly monitored routes, with suspicions of deliberate contamination by Berom youths.