Soldier Shöt Déad By Police Inspector Over Illegal Mining Truck in Bauchi

Tragedy struck in Futuk, Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State, when a soldier of the Nigerian Army was shot dead by a mobile police inspector during the interception of a truck suspected to be conveying illegally mined solid minerals.

According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the incident occurred on Monday, August 25, at about 7:50 p.m., when troops of the 33 Artillery Brigade, Bauchi, stopped a truck with registration number Gombe 676 BLG at a checkpoint in Futuk village.

Reports indicate that the driver of the truck initially refused to halt, forcing the Guard Commander, Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Ali Haruna, and his men to pursue and eventually intercept the vehicle.

Shockingly, a mobile police officer identified as Inspector Yusuf Ibrahim, who was allegedly escorting the truck, disembarked and opened fire on MWO Haruna, hitting him in the stomach.

The soldiers quickly overpowered and disarmed the policeman, while the injured officer was rushed to the Gombe Specialist Hospital. He, however, succumbed to the gunshot wound.

Sources disclosed that the truck driver escaped during the chaos, while preliminary findings revealed that the vehicle was conveying solid minerals suspected to have been extracted illegally from Yalo community in Alkaleri LGA.

The incident has raised concerns about the role of security operatives in illegal mining activities, with calls for independent investigations to address compromises within the security system.

Meanwhile, the Bauchi State Commissioner of Police has met with the Commander, 33 Artillery Brigade, Brig.-Gen. U.J. Simon, to calm tensions and ensure the matter is handled properly.

The remains of the slain officer have been deposited at the hospital morgue for burial in line with military tradition, while Inspector Ibrahim remains in army custody. The intercepted truck has also been impounded as investigations continue.