Missing Herder Killed by Mwaghavul Militia Found Beheaded in Mangu as Troops Warn Against Reprisal
By: Zagazola Makama
The corpse of a missing herder, identified as Suleiman Haruna, has been discovered beheaded by suspected Mwaghavul militia in Gyambwas Rigi in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, following an earlier report of his disappearance alongside 33 cattle.
Security sources said troops of Sector 8, Sub-Sector 81, deployed at Gyambwas, responded to a report of the discovery at about 6:25 a.m. on November 2, 2026.
The sources said the victim had earlier been reported missing on October 31, alongside 33 cattle in the area believed to be rustled by Mwaghavul Militiamen in the area.
The discovery reportedly prompted the attendance of the Commander of Sub-Sector 81, the Divisional Crime Officer of the Nigeria Police Force, Gindiri Division, the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Mangu, as well as community and religious leaders.
The victim was subsequently buried, with security and community representatives present.
During the engagement, members of the Fulani community were reportedly admonished not to resort to reprisal attacks over the killing.
They were also urged to assist security agencies with credible information that could lead to the tracking and arrest of the militia elements.
Security sources said troops were currently dominating the general area to prevent further security breaches and maintain peace.
Operation Enduring Peace continues to sustain security operations in Mangu and other parts of Plateau State, while urging residents to avoid reprisals and cooperate with security agencies.
