No fewer than 10 people have been killed and several cows rustled in renewed violence in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The recent surge of violence in Riyom reportedly stemmed from farm destruction, cattle rustling, and attacks on livestock carried out by individuals from both Fulani and Berom communities.
A statement from Operation Safe Haven disclosed that the recent insecurity in the council area began on Monday, May 12, 2025, when suspected youths slaughtered and rustled cattle that had encroached on their farms in Dayan village, Riyom Local Government Area.
Retaliating, suspected Fulani herders attacked Danchindo village on the evening of May 13, killing at least 4 people before fleeing ahead of security operatives’ arrival.
On Wednesday, May 14, at least 26 cows were killed and several others injured in Darwat community, allegedly in reprisal for the earlier killings of locals.
Later that day, suspected Fulani militias retaliated by attacking an isolated settlement near Wereng Kam community, killing six locals.
Officers of the Joint Security Task Force, upon receiving reports of escalating tensions in Riyom, engaged community representatives to broker peace and warned against actions that could further destabilise the fragile situation.
Responding to the allegations of cattle rustling and slaughtering, one suspect has been arrested and is currently under investigation, while 130 cows have been recovered and returned to their owners.
According to the statement, the troops’ swift response prevented the assailants from completely burning down Wereng village.
A mop-up operation was launched to neutralise fleeing militants, as troops continue to maintain a strong presence to restore order.
Commander of Operation Safe Haven and General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, visited the area and met with stakeholders and community leaders.
Normalcy is said to have returned, supported by the presence of security operatives working to maintain law and order.
