At least 37 cattle were shot dead in the Tashek community of the Riyom local government area in Plateau state on Sunday, according to Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, the state chapter chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN). The incident occurred around 1:00 PM.

This attack follows a similar incident a week prior in the Tanjol community, also in Riyom LGA, where gunmen injured two herders and killed five cattle.

Babayo described the attack as unprovoked and deliberate, alleging the perpetrators have a hidden agenda. He stated, "Gunmen stormed the area and started shooting at grazing cattle, leading to the death of 37 cattle and injury of the herder. Immediately after the attack, I called on the sector commander of Operation Safe Haven in Riyom to inform him about the incident, and he subsequently deployed troops to the scene to assess the situation."

Babayo reported informing heads of security agencies in the state, including the commander of OPSH, GOC 3 division, the commissioner of police, and the State Director Security (SDS). He said that these officials acknowledged the report and urged them not to take the law into their own hands, assuring that efforts are underway to arrest the perpetrators.

Babayo claimed that attacks on herders and their cattle have become a daily occurrence. Despite these attacks, he has called on members to remain calm and trust that security forces will address the crimes. He believes the recent series of attacks are a calculated attempt to undermine their economy and leave them vulnerable.

Contacted for comment, Song Bitrus, a youth leader in Riyom LGA, stated, "I am not aware of the incident. I am just hearing it from you. I am not aware."

Spokesperson of Operation Safe Haven, Major Samson Zhakom, did not respond to a message for comment by the press time.