Killing of Fulani Youths by Berom Militants Triggers Immediate Counter-Attack in Barkin Ladi, Leaves Three Dead so Far
By: Zagazola Makama
Killing of a Fulani youth by suspected Berom militants in Rakum community of Plateau State has triggered an immediate counter-attack in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, resulting in the death of two Berom natives, security sources have said.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) responded at about 4:05 p.m. on May 9 following a distress call indicating a violent clash between Fulani and Berom youths in Rakum.
On arrival, troops confirmed that a Fulani youth had been killed during the initial confrontation involving suspected Berom youths.
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However, the situation reportedly escalated when Fulani youths mobilised and moved into Sabon Layi, where they allegedly opened fire in a reprisal attack, killing two innocent Berom natives.
Security personnel were immediately deployed to restore order and prevent further escalation, while efforts commenced to engage community leaders to calm tensions in the affected areas.
In several parts of Plateau State, especially in Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bassa and Mangu LGAs, recurring incidents of targeted killings have continued to fuel a cycle of violent reprisals and counter-reprisals between armed groups from farming and pastoral communities.
Security reports indicate that suspected Berom militant elements, alongside other armed youth groups, have been linked to isolated attacks, ambushes and killings in some rural settlements, often triggering immediate retaliation from opposing groups. These incidents frequently escalate within hours, with each side launching reprisal attacks in nearby communities, thereby widening the theatre of violence.