One Beheaded as Two Missing Herders Found Dead in Plateau

Two suspected Fulani herders who were declared missing in Plateau State have been found dead in separate incidents in Mangu and Bokkos Local Government Areas, with one of the victims discovered beheaded.

The first victim, identified as Suleiman Haruna, was found dead in the Gyambwas Rigi area of Mangu LGA in the early hours of Monday, November 2, 2026.

According to security sources cited by counter-insurgency publication Zagazola Makama, Haruna had been reported missing on October 31 alongside 33 cattle. The livestock were believed to have been rustled in the area.

His remains were reportedly discovered by troops of Sector 8, Sub-Sector 81, of Operation Enduring Peace. The discovery prompted the arrival of security officials, police representatives, the Mangu chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), and community and religious leaders.

During the engagement, members of the Fulani community were urged not to resort to reprisals over the killing. They were also encouraged to provide credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying and arresting those responsible.

In a separate incident, troops of Operation Enduring Peace discovered the body of another missing herder, identified as 40-year-old Mallam Shagari Hamidu, in a mountainous area of Matelem village, Bokkos LGA.

Hamidu was reportedly declared missing after an attack at Jirong village in the Mushere Central District of Bokkos. Troops of Sector 5, working with his relatives, conducted a search that led to the recovery of his body on Sunday, November 1.

The remains were subsequently handed over to his family for burial.

Security operatives have continued patrols in the affected areas to prevent further violence and maintain peace.

The incidents have renewed concerns over insecurity and tensions between farming and herding communities in Plateau State. Security agencies have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing efforts to prevent further attacks.