Gunmen shot five cows during an attack on Fulani cattle settlements near Rafin Bauna village in Bassa LGA, Plateau State, in the early hours of May 9, 2026.

Security sources said troops of Operation Enduring Peace responded quickly after hearing reports of gunfire around the area. The attackers fled before causing more damage.

An assessment found five cows belonging to 45-year-old Idris Zubairu were hit. Two were badly injured and had to be slaughtered by the owner, while three others suffered gunshot wounds. Other cattle that scattered during the attack were later recovered. No people were hurt.

Military sources linked the attack to armed youths who allegedly fired toward the settlements before running off when troops arrived.

The incident adds to a recent rise in livestock-related violence and reprisals in Bassa, Riyom, Barkin Ladi and Mangu LGAs.

Troops said they have increased patrols around farming and grazing areas to prevent clashes and block criminal groups from operating.