Troops arrest two underage herders over illegal grazing in Plateau

Troops of Sector 6 under Operation Enduring Peace have arrested two underage herdsmen for allegedly engaging in illegal grazing on restricted land in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The troops responded at about 3:00 p.m. on June 21 to a complaint of illegal grazing activities around Rim community.

Upon arrival at the location, troops apprehended two minors identified as Ahmed Masa’udu, 10, and Ibrahim Manu, 9, both said to be from Tafawa.

According to security sources, the children were found grazing within restricted areas before they were taken into custody by security personnel.

It added that the leadership of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Riyom Local Government Area had been contacted to assist in tracing the custodians of the minors for appropriate action.

Military authorities said the suspects are being handled in line with established procedures, while investigations are ongoing to determine those responsible for sending them to the area.

Operation Enduring Peace continues to maintain patrols and enforcement activities aimed at preventing illegal grazing and reducing farmer-herder tensions in Plateau State.