A soldier attached Operation Safe Haven in Tafawa Balewa local government area of Bauchi State has allegedly killed a young man, Habibu Aminu and injured four others.
The incident which occurred on Tuesday, followed an altercation between some members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and military personnel stationed at Lere Village in Tafawa Balewa local government area of Bauchi State.
The state’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ahmed Mohammed Wakili confirmed the incident in a chat with journalists on Wednesday.
SP Wakil explained that some PDP members from the village went for a campaign in Lere in three ‘Sharon’ vehicles in preparations for the local government elections coming up on the August 17, 2024.
“On their way back, they had to pass through a checkpoint mounted by personnel of Operation Safe Heaven based in Tafawa Balewa. They were stopped at the checkpoint but refused to stop and drove to Lere.
“However, the troops went and arrested one of the drivers in his house at Lere. Consequently, the people became more aggressive and went back to the checkpoint in order to free the arrested driver,” the PPRO said.
He added that the soldier during the encounter opened fire at the people resulting to the injuries of Habibu Aminu, Babawo, Nawawu, Abdulrashid, Ahmed Yashim and Yakubu Bello.
According to him, Aminu later died at the hospital from the injuries sustained from the shooting while others were responding to treatment.
The Bauchi State Police spokesman further stated that following the incident, some aggrieved persons mobilised themselves and attacked the Palace of the District Head of Lere.
“It’s important to note that the Command swiftly responded to the situation.
“Upon receiving the information, the Commissioner, Auwal Musa Mohammed, dispatched a Unit of the Mobile Police Force to the area for reinforcement,” Wakil said.
He added that a team of seasoned detectives has been constituted to conduct a professional, diligent, and timely investigation to ensure that justice is served over the incident.
Wakil also pledged that the officers involved in the incident will be identified and held accountable according to the law.
“The Commissioner of Police is committed to a meticulous investigation process that utilises all necessary protocols, including technical and scientific tools. It is crucial to ensure that thorough investigations are carried out to provide justice and resolution in this matter,” the police spokesman said.
