Troops arrest five over stray bullet killing in Maiduguri, probe ongoing
The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has arrested five suspects over the unauthorised discharge of firearms that resulted in the death of a young girl in
- Duku Joel, Maiduguri
The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has arrested five suspects over the unauthorised discharge of firearms that resulted in the death of a young girl in Maiduguri.
The incident occurred around 2:00 p.m. on April 4, 2026, in the Ngomari area of the state capital, during a wedding celebration at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Teachers' Staff Quarters.
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According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Media Information Officer of OPHK, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the suspects allegedly engaged in sporadic shooting at the social gathering.
The military authorities said the reckless discharge of firearms led to a stray bullet that struck and killed the victim, triggering outrage within the community.
The suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue, while security authorities reiterated warnings against the unauthorised use of firearms during public celebrations.
He said troops, working in conjunction with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), swiftly tracked and apprehended the suspects linked to the incident.
The arrested individuals were identified as Muhammad Husaini (28), Abba Jiddu (25), Abba Kolo Mohammed (20), Ali Adam (20), and Nura Mohammed (18).
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Uba disclosed that the suspects were members of an escort team attached to a Local Government Area chairman and had no authorisation to discharge firearms at the event.
“The reckless act led to the death of a young girl. Acting swiftly, troops traced and apprehended five suspects who are currently in custody and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution,” he said.
The military authorities condemned the incident, describing the action as unprofessional and a violation of established regulations on the handling and use of firearms.
The statement reiterated that the CJTF operates strictly as a support group and is not permitted to engage in indiscriminate use of firearms, particularly in civilian environments.
Meanwhile, the Theatre Command has commenced a comprehensive investigation 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.
While noting that the security situation in the area remains calm, OPHK assured residents of sustained vigilance to maintain law and order.
The Command also extended condolences to the bereaved family and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring justice, accountability, and the protection of civilians.
