Troops Arrest Five Over Stray Bullet Killing in Maiduguri

Troops Arrest Five Over Stray Bullet Killing in Maiduguri

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, has arrested five suspects over the unauthorised discharge of firearms that led to the death of a young girl in Ngomari area of Maiduguri, Borno State.

In a statement signed by the Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the suspects were apprehended following an incident that occurred around 2:00 p.m. on April 4, 2026, during a wedding celebration at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Teachers Staff Quarters.

According to the statement, the suspects; identified as Muhammad Husaini (28), Abba Jiddu (25), Abba Kolo Mohammed (20), Ali Adam (20), and Nura Mohammed (18) were part of a vigilante escort team attached to a Local Government chairman and allegedly engaged in indiscriminate firing at the event.

The command said the “reckless act” resulted in the death of a young girl, prompting swift action by troops in collaboration with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), leading to the arrest of those involved.

“The Theatre Command strongly condemns the act, describing it as highly unprofessional, unauthorised, and a clear violation of established regulations governing the handling and use of firearms,” the statement said.

It reiterated that the CJTF operates strictly in a supportive capacity and is not permitted to engage in indiscriminate use of firearms, particularly in civilian settings.

The suspects are currently in custody and will be handed over to appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution in line with existing laws.

Operation HADIN KAI also disclosed that a comprehensive investigation has been launched in collaboration with relevant state authorities, including the Office of the Senior Adviser on Security to the Borno State Government, to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

“A comprehensive investigation has been initiated to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure that all those found culpable are brought to justice,” the statement added.

The command noted that while the security situation in the area remains calm, troops have heightened vigilance to maintain law and order.

It also extended condolences to the family of the deceased and assured the public of its commitment to protecting civilians and enforcing accountability.