Four cows suspected to have been stolen by Berom militiamen along Shen Road in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State have been successfully recovered by troops of Operation Safe Haven. The recovery took place on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at approximately 10:30 am, following an intensive search operation launched after reports of the cattle rustling. Security analyst Zagazola Makama confirmed the development in a post on X, highlighting that one of the four cows was found dead while efforts are ongoing to locate other animals believed to have been taken during the incident.
The operation was coordinated under the leadership of the Commander of Sub-Sector 12, Lamingo, with military personnel actively combing the surrounding areas for any remaining stolen livestock. Troops from Operation Safe Haven have intensified surveillance and patrols in the region to prevent further acts of cattle theft and to ensure the safety of local communities. The area has experienced sporadic incidents of cattle rustling in recent months, prompting increased security measures across Jos South and neighboring zones.
According to Makama’s update, sources close to the investigation indicated that the suspected perpetrators are linked to Berom militia groups operating in the region. These groups have been implicated in several similar cases, often targeting herds moving along rural routes like Shen Road. The recovery of the cows marks a significant step in addressing the growing insecurity related to livestock theft in Plateau State.
Despite the successful retrieval of three cows, authorities remain cautious as they continue tracking down the remaining stolen animals. The dead cow has been handed over to veterinary officials for post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death and assess whether it was due to neglect or violence. Local farmers and pastoralists have welcomed the recovery, expressing hope that such operations will deter future criminal activities.
Operation Safe Haven, which is part of Nigeria’s broader counter-insurgency and anti-crime strategy, continues to focus on restoring peace and protecting livelihoods in high-risk areas. The military has reiterated its commitment to working closely with local leaders and intelligence units to gather information and prevent recurring attacks. As the situation evolves, more details are expected to be released by security agencies.
This incident underscores the persistent challenges of rural insecurity in Plateau State, particularly concerning cattle rustling and intercommunal tensions. With continued military presence and community cooperation, there is growing optimism that stability can be restored to affected regions. The recovery of the cows serves as a reminder of the importance of swift response and coordinated action in safeguarding property and lives.
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