A soldier shot and killed a civilian, Habibu Aminu, on Wednesday in Lere Village, Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
The Bauchi State Police Command confirmed the incident to Channels Television in a telephone conversation.
According to the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Ahmed Wakili, the situation escalated following an altercation between members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Lere Village and personnel of Operation Safe Haven stationed in Tafawa Balewa.
According to reports, some members of the PDP from Lere Village in Tafawa Balewa LGA were travelling in three Sharon vehicles for a campaign in Lere District ahead of the upcoming local government elections. While returning, they were stopped at a checkpoint by Operation Safe Haven personnel. They refused to stop and proceeded to Lere town.
The troops subsequently arrested one of the drivers at his home in Lere. This action incited further aggression from the group, leading them to return to the checkpoint to attempt to free the arrested driver. The troops then opened fire, resulting in the death of Habibu Aminu and injuries to several others.
Wakili explained that the police responded promptly upon receiving the information.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Auwal Muhammad, dispatched a unit of the Mobile Police Force to the area for reinforcement. Additionally, a team of seasoned detectives has been constituted to conduct a thorough, professional, and timely investigation to ensure that justice is served,” he said.
He stated that the officers involved in the incident would be identified and held accountable according to the law, assuring that the Commissioner of Police is committed to a meticulous investigation process using all necessary protocols, including technical and scientific tools, to ensure justice and resolution in this matter.
