Soldier Shot Dead by Police Inspector Over Illegal Mining Truck in Bauchi

A Nigerian Army soldier was fatally shot by a mobile police inspector during an operation to intercept a truck suspected of transporting solid minerals illegally in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

The tragic incident occurred on August 25 at approximately 7:50 p.m. in Futuk village when troops from the 33 Artillery Brigade, Bauchi, stopped a truck bearing registration number Gombe 676 BLG at a checkpoint. The truck driver initially refused to comply and stop at the checkpoint, prompting Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Ali Haruna, the Guard Commander, to pursue the vehicle with his men on motorbikes until it was intercepted.

Upon stopping the truck, a mobile police officer identified as Inspector Yusuf Ibrahim reportedly disembarked and opened fire on MWO Haruna, shooting him in the stomach. The soldiers quickly overpowered and disarmed the inspector, while the injured officer was rushed to Gombe Specialist Hospital for urgent medical treatment. Sadly, MWO Haruna succumbed to the gunshot wound.

In the ensuing chaos, the truck driver escaped, the truck itself was suspected to be carrying solid minerals extracted illegally from Yalo community within the same local government area. Preliminary investigations suggest the police inspector may have been on illegal escort duty for the truck.

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The circumstances surrounding the refusal of the truck to stop, the police officer’s decision to open fire on trained military personnel, and the driver’s escape have raised serious suspicions. Authorities have called for urgent, independent investigations to address suspected compromises within the security framework.

Meanwhile, Bauchi State Commissioner of Police has engaged with Brigadier-General U.J. Simon, Commander of 33 Artillery Brigade, to ease tensions and ensure thorough handling of the case. The deceased soldier’s remains have been deposited at the hospital morgue, and preparations for burial in line with military tradition are ongoing.

Inspector Yusuf Ibrahim is currently in army custody, and the truck has been impounded for further investigation as the search for the escaped driver continues. The incident highlights disturbing trends of security personnel’s alleged involvement in illegal mining activities, raising calls for stronger oversight within the security forces .