Police Command Debunks Misleading REPORT on Soldier's Death In Bauchi, Launches Full Investigation 

The Bauchi State Police Command has appealed for calm following the unfortunate killing of a soldier in the state, assuring the public that a joint team of investigators from the police and the Nigerian Army Military Police has commenced a thorough inquiry into the circumstances that led to the incident.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, the Command faulted reports published by a social media blogger, Zagazola Makama, describing them as “misleading, inaccurate and a misrepresentation of facts.”

According to the reports trending on social media, the soldier, Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Ali Haruna of the 33 Artillery Brigade, Bauchi, was fatally shot by a mobile police officer identified as Inspector Yusuf Ibrahim while trying to intercept a truck allegedly loaded with solid minerals from an illegal mining site in Futuk, Alkaleri Local Government Area, on August 25, 2025.

The blogger claimed that the deceased officer, alongside his team, had pursued the truck after the driver failed to stop at a checkpoint, eventually catching up with it in Futuk village. The report further alleged that Inspector Ibrahim, who was said to be on illegal duty, opened fire on the soldier, hitting him in the abdomen. The soldier later died at the Gombe Specialist Hospital despite efforts to save him.

However, the Police Command has clarified that preliminary investigations revealed otherwise. The truck in question, with registration number Gombe 676-BLG, was lawfully conveying minerals belonging to Guruje Mining Company Limited and ZURFI Company Limited—two firms duly licensed by the Federal Government to mine lead and zinc in Gwana, Alkaleri LGA.

Both companies, according to police records, obtained valid authorization from the Mining Cadastre Office on May 12, 2023, and remain fully compliant with the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act of 2007 as well as the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 2020. They had also paid the requisite fees for mineral export to the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development under RRR Code 3212-7561-4841.

Police further explained that mobile officers were officially assigned to the mining companies to provide protection for expatriate workers and secure operations in line with national security protocols. Inspector Yusuf Ibrahim was one of the officers legitimately deployed to this duty post, contrary to allegations that he was on unauthorized assignment.

“While we acknowledge the tragic loss of life, it is necessary to put the facts in proper perspective,” the statement read. “It is misleading to suggest that this incident stemmed from illegal mining activities or unauthorized police duty. Such narratives have the potential to erode public confidence and weaken the synergy between security agencies who continue to work together for peace and security in Bauchi State.”

The Police Command confirmed that the investigation panel—comprising seasoned detectives and the Nigerian Army Military Police—has been mandated to probe both the immediate and remote causes of the incident. The panel will collect evidence, interrogate all relevant parties, and ensure an evidence-based conclusion that upholds justice and accountability.

The Command also appealed to journalists and media practitioners to uphold the ethics of responsible reporting, stressing the importance of accuracy, fairness, and national unity in their coverage.

Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, CP Aliyu, on behalf of officers and men of the Bauchi Police Command, extended heartfelt condolences to the Commander, 33 Artillery Brigade, and to the family of the late Master Warrant Officer.

“May Almighty Allah grant the family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss and comfort them in this difficult time,” the statement added.

The Bauchi Police boss reiterated his commitment to professionalism, transparency, and inter-agency cooperation, calling on the public to disregard misinformation and rely solely on official communications from relevant authorities.