By Harriet Tornguvan
The Headquarters Theatre Command of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has arrested five suspects over the unauthorised discharge of firearms in Ngomari, Maiduguri, an incident that led to the tragic death of a young girl.
In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of OPHK, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the arrests followed a swift response by troops in collaboration with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
The incident occurred during a wedding celebration at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Teachers Staff Quarters in the Ngomari general area. According to the statement, some vigilantes, later identified as members of an escort team attached to a Local Government Area chairman, engaged in sporadic gunfire into the air.
The reckless discharge of firearms resulted in the death of an innocent girl, sparking outrage and prompting immediate action by security operatives. Troops swiftly traced and apprehended five suspects identified as Muhammad Husaini (28), Abba Jiddu (25), Abba Kolo Mohammed (20), Ali Adam (20), and Nura Mohammed (18).
The suspects are currently in custody and are expected to be handed over to appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution in line with extant laws.
Condemning the incident, the Theatre Command described the act as unprofessional, unauthorised, and a clear violation of regulations governing the use of firearms. It emphasised that the CJTF operates strictly as a support group and is not permitted to engage in indiscriminate firing under any circumstances, particularly in civilian areas.
The Command further disclosed that a comprehensive investigation has been launched 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 and ensure accountability.
While noting that the security situation in the area remains calm, OPHK assured residents of sustained vigilance by troops to maintain law and order.
The Theatre Command also extended its condolences to the family of the deceased and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians and ensuring justice is served.
