Nigerian Army troops under Operation Enduring Peace have arrested three suspected Berom militia members and recovered 84 rustled cattle following an attack on Fulani pastoralists in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State. The incident, which occurred on April 22, prompted a swift military response after reports of cattle rustling emerged near Makera market. Troops from Sector 6, stationed at Dokku, arrived at the scene around 5:00 p.m. and immediately launched a search and rescue operation. They tracked the movement of the stolen livestock to a riverine location, where they successfully recovered all 84 cattle and returned them to their rightful owners.
Security analyst and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama confirmed the development in a post shared via his X handle. According to Makama, the three suspects apprehended are believed to be linked to the cattle rustling incident and are currently in military custody for further interrogation. The recovery of the livestock and arrest of the suspects mark a significant intervention by the military in addressing ongoing insecurity in the region. This operation underscores the continued efforts by the Nigerian Army to curb cattle rustling and protect vulnerable communities in Plateau State.
The incident highlights the persistent threat of livestock theft and attacks on pastoralists, which have long been a source of tension between farming and herding communities in Plateau State. Areas such as Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, Mangu, and Riyom have been particularly affected by these conflicts. Security sources warn that such acts often spark cycles of retaliation, escalating violence and undermining peace initiatives in the region. The military’s intervention in this case is seen as a step toward restoring order and preventing further escalation.
Cattle rustling remains a major security challenge in Nigeria, particularly in the Middle Belt and North Central regions. It not only disrupts livelihoods but also contributes to inter-communal violence, making it a critical issue for national security. The Nigerian Army’s Operation Enduring Peace has been deployed to address these challenges, with a focus on protecting civilians and maintaining stability. The successful recovery of the livestock and arrest of suspects demonstrate the operation’s effectiveness in responding to real-time threats.
As tensions remain high in Plateau State, the military’s continued presence and swift action are crucial in preventing further violence. The incident serves as a reminder of the fragile peace in the region and the need for sustained security and dialogue. Authorities are urged to strengthen community engagement and address root causes to ensure lasting solutions. The recovery of the 84 cattle and apprehension of the suspects offer hope for more coordinated efforts to tackle insecurity in the area.
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