By Muhammad Tanko Shittu — At least three herders were killed on Sunday in Kassa community, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, while two others sustained injuries after gunmen attacked their vehicle.
The Secretary of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, in Barkin Ladi, Abubakar Gambo, who confirmed the incident, said the victims were travelling from Bokkos to Kara cattle market in Jos South when they came under attack.
Mr Gambo said the incident occurred at about 3 p.m. while the victims were transporting cattle in a J5 vehicle.
“The herders were on their way from Bokkos to Kara cattle market in Jos South when the gunmen suddenly opened fire on their vehicle.
“They were conveying cattle in the vehicle. Three occupants died, while two others sustained injuries and have been rushed to the hospital.
“The Operation Enduring Peace Sector Commander in Barkin Ladi has visited the scene. The corpses have been evacuated by personnel of the operation. We are preparing to bury them today,” the secretary said.
The attack occurred amid heightened tension and renewed reports of killings in some local government areas of the state.
Mr Gambo condemned the attack and called on security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible were brought to justice.
He also appealed to members of the herding community to remain calm and refrain from taking the law into their own hands.
“The leadership of MACBAN in the area is calling on our members to remain calm, never take the law into their own hands, and allow security agencies to investigate those responsible for the attack,” he said.
He said the association remained committed to working with security agencies to ensure the safety of herders and other residents in the affected communities.
