Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) in Plateau State have recovered 200 cows lost by Fulani cattle herders.
Some members of the Miyatti Allah on Monday claimed that 350 of their cows were stolen and threatened to “violently search” for the cattle in Ganawuri, Riyom local government.
Some of the cows were found dead, according to the security men who said some people have been arrested.
The Special Task Force insisted that only 200 cows were stolen.
A statement issued on behalf of the Commander of OPSH by Brig.-Gen. A. M. Bello reads: “Our attention has been drawn to some newspaper articles reporting palpable tension in Plateau State. The reports indicate that the state had been thrown into a state of fear, following alleged threats issued by the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the state over an alleged attack on their kinsmen and the rustling of 350 cows belonging to their people.
“Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) wishes to state authoritatively that the rumor is unfounded, misplaced and out of reality and should therefore be disregarded.
“Please note that only 200 cattle were missing out of which a hundred were recovered while 20 were found dead. Efforts are ongoing to find the remaining ones with the assistance of the locals in the area.
“However, some suspects were arrested and investigations are ongoing.
“Furthermore, the command has made efforts at meeting with all the parties involved and strongly advised them to remain peaceful and work closely with security agencies to unravel these criminals once and for all , rather taking laws into their hands.
“We therefore advise members of the public to go about their normal business as the situation is under control.”
