A police officer has been arrested after allegedly shooting and killing a soldier in Futuk, Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
The Army’s 33 Artillery Brigade confirmed the incident, saying the officer is now in custody and a joint investigation by the Police and Army is underway.
Witnesses said the clash happened on Monday evening after soldiers intercepted a truck suspected to be carrying illegally mined minerals. The truck, allegedly under police escort, was stopped at a checkpoint, but the driver tried to flee. A heated argument then broke out between the soldiers and the police escort, during which the officer reportedly shot one of the soldiers.
The injured soldier was rushed to a hospital in Gombe but later died. His body has since been deposited at the morgue, while burial plans are ongoing according to military tradition.
Officials in Alkaleri commended the soldiers for avoiding retaliation and instead handing over the police officer and the truck driver for further investigation.
Security sources say the case has raised concerns about possible involvement of security personnel in illegal mining in the area.
The Bauchi State Commissioner of Police and the Brigade Commander have met to calm tensions and ensure the matter is properly handled.
