Dare Babalola
A tense confrontation between a police officer and a soldier in Bauchi State has ended in tragedy, with the soldier being shot dead.
The incident occurred when a truck, allegedly carrying illegally mined mineral resources from a Chinese mining company, was intercepted by troops at a checkpoint in Futuk, Alkaleri Local Government Area.
According to eyewitnesses who spoke to Punch, the truck driver refused to stop, prompting the soldiers to pursue and intercept the vehicle.
An altercation between the security personnel ensued, resulting in the police officer shooting one of the soldiers. The soldier was rushed to a hospital in Gombe State, where he was later confirmed dead.
The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 33 Artillery Brigade, Major Atang Hallet Solomon, confirmed the incident and stated that a joint investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The police officer involved is currently in custody, while the truck driver fled the scene.
“Our relationship with the police remains cordial, and a joint investigation is underway to determine the immediate and remote causes of the incident,” Major Solomon said.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in Bauchi State, SP Ahmad Wakili, stated that the Commissioner of Police was scheduled to visit the scene on Thursday.
“Further details will be provided after the on-the-spot assessment,” he told Punch.
