A tragic clash between security operatives has left a soldier dead in Bauchi State after a police officer allegedly shot him during an altercation.
According to reports, the incident occurred in Futuk, Alkaleri Local Government Area, when troops at a military checkpoint attempted to stop a truck allegedly loaded with mineral resources belonging to a Chinese mining company.
The minerals were suspected to have been illegally mined from the Yalo mining sites.
How the Clash Happened
Eyewitnesses said the truck driver ignored orders to stop, prompting soldiers to chase and intercept the vehicle.
The situation escalated into a heated confrontation between the soldiers and a police inspector attached to the Mobile Police Unit (MOPOL), who was reportedly escorting the truck.
Amid the standoff, the police officer allegedly shot one of the soldiers.
The victim was rushed to a hospital in Gombe State, where he was later confirmed dead.
The Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Major Atang Hallet Solomon, confirmed the incident but declined to provide details, citing an ongoing investigation.
“Our relationship with the police remains cordial, and a joint investigation is underway to determine the immediate and remote causes of the incident,” he said.
Major Solomon also noted that the ownership and contents of the truck could not yet be verified, while the driver had fled the scene.
However, he confirmed that the police officer involved is currently in custody.
On his part, the Bauchi State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ahmad Wakili, said the Commissioner of Police would visit the scene for an on-the-spot assessment.
“Further details will be provided after the Commissioner’s visit,” he added.
Authorities from both the Nigerian Army and the Police have assured that investigations will be conducted to establish what led to the shooting, amid concerns about illegal mining activities and clashes between security operatives in the region.