SAA event in Nigeria on Sun 11th January 2026

Police confirm poisoning of livestock by suspected Birom militia in Plateau

By: Zagazola Makama 

The Plateau State Police Command has confirmed that seven cows were poisoned and three others shot dead in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area (LGA) of the state, allegedly by suspected Birom militia.

Sources said that the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Jan. 11 between Kwi and Heipang villages in Barkin Ladi LGA.

The sources said the report was made in the early hours of Jan. 12 by Alhaji Tambari, Chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Barkin Ladi LGA, who stated that the affected cattle belonged to one Yau Yusuf.

According to the police, preliminary findings indicated that the cattle were poisoned, while three others were killed by gunshots allegedly fired by members of a suspected Birom militia operating in the area.

Following the report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Barkin Ladi mobilised and led a team of police officers to the scene for assessment and evidence gathering.

The police said investigation had commenced, while efforts were ongoing to identify and arrest those responsible for the act in order to prevent escalation of tension in the area.