April 20, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel
Tension has once again gripped following a deadly reprisal attack that claimed the lives of three residents, including a 12-year-old boy, in Hurum village, Tenti District of Local Government Area.
The victims—Clement Polycarp (35), Pankat Moses (32), and young Jonathan (12)—were reportedly killed when suspected armed militia stormed the community late Sunday night, opening fire indiscriminately on residents. Two others sustained gunshot wounds and are currently receiving treatment at a nearby hospital.
Security sources reveal that the attackers invaded the village around 10:00 p.m., unleashing terror before fleeing into surrounding mountainous forests as security operatives responded swiftly to the distress call. Despite efforts to engage the assailants, the difficult terrain allowed them to escape.
The latest violence is believed to be a reprisal linked to a disturbing incident just 48 hours earlier in Rakum village, Kassa District, where nine cattle belonging to a herder, identified as Dauda Jalo, were allegedly poisoned. Authorities confirmed that the livestock died after grazing on a suspected toxic substance, raising fears of deliberate contamination.
Residents say the killings highlight a dangerous cycle of retaliation that continues to plague communities across Barkin Ladi and neighboring areas like and . Long-standing tensions between farming and pastoralist groups—often fueled by disputes over land, cattle rustling, and revenge attacks—remain unresolved.
Despite ongoing military and police operations, locals lament that justice is rarely served, as perpetrators frequently evade capture. There are also growing allegations that some individuals within affected communities may be shielding those responsible, further complicating peace efforts.
Authorities have confirmed that investigations into both the killings and the cattle poisoning are ongoing, while additional security forces have been deployed to prevent further escalation.
As fear spreads across the region, residents are calling for urgent and decisive action to break the cycle of violence and restore lasting peace.
