Tragedy struck Dorong village in Plateau State after at least four children were reportedly killed in a revenge attack linked to suspected herders, raising fresh alarm over the worsening security situation in the area.
The deadly incident happened early Thursday in Dorong village, within the Foron district of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, according to counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama.
Security sources disclosed that the assault was allegedly carried out by armed Fulani herdsmen amid rising tensions fueled by recent cattle rustling incidents and attacks on pastoral settlements in the region.
Those killed were identified as Precious Joshuah, 17; Isa’ac Joshuah, 9; Mary Joshuah, 7; and Eve Sambo, 3.
Makama reported that the killings occurred less than two days after coordinated attacks on herding communities in Barkin Ladi, Jos East, and Riyom local government areas, during which no fewer than 168 cattle were allegedly stolen and several others poisoned.
Residents had earlier expressed fear, warning that retaliatory violence was likely if security agencies failed to intervene promptly.
“Tension has been building for days. People knew reprisals were coming if nothing was done. Unfortunately, what was feared has now happened,” a local resident said.
In response, security personnel have been deployed to Dorong and surrounding communities to calm the situation and stop further attacks.
As of now, authorities have not issued an official statement on arrests or confirmed casualty figures, while investigations into the incident remain ongoing.
