Bauchi Police Constable Shot Dead by Soldier

Tension has gripped Bauchi State following the fatal shooting of a police constable by a soldier during a late-night altercation at a security checkpoint in the Bayan Gari area of Bauchi metropolis.

The slain officer, identified as Constable Ukasha Muhammed (F/No 533164), was reportedly gunned down around 10:35 p.m. on Thursday, October 10, 2025, after a disagreement with personnel of the Nigerian Army attached to a joint security task force.

According to a statement issued by the Bauchi State Police Command, the incident occurred when a team of policemen on duty at the Bayan Gari checkpoint had an exchange with soldiers from Operation Safe Haven.

The confrontation quickly escalated, leading to the death of the constable.

Police spokesperson SP Ahmed Wakil confirmed that preliminary findings revealed the suspected shooter as Private Usman Mubarak (23NA/84/5346), who allegedly opened fire during the argument.

He was said to have been accompanied by Private Yakubu Yahuza (23NA/85/10185) and Private Godspower Gabriel (23NA/84/5654) at the scene.

“The constable sustained gunshot wounds to the chest and was rushed to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), where he was certified dead by a medical doctor,” the statement read.

Wakil added that the three soldiers were immediately apprehended and placed in custody while the police homicide unit commenced a full investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the killing.

The command described the act as “unfortunate and avoidable,” assuring the public that justice will be served.

“The Commissioner of Police has directed a comprehensive investigation in collaboration with military authorities to ensure that those responsible face the full weight of the law,” the statement added.

The tragic incident has sparked outrage among residents and raised renewed concerns over coordination and discipline among Nigeria’s security forces, particularly in joint operations where inter-agency cooperation is vital.

As of press time, the Nigerian Army was yet to issue an official response regarding the conduct of its personnel, though sources within the military hinted that an internal inquiry has been launched.

Authorities have, meanwhile, urged calm, pledging that the investigation will be thorough and transparent.