Military Apprehends Soldier for Fatally Shooting Driver at Borno Checkpoint
The 7 Division of the Nigerian Army in Maiduguri has verified the apprehension of a soldier accused of fatally shooting a truck driver at a checkpoint along the Maiduguri-Dikwa-Gamboru Road.
The incident reportedly transpired due to a disagreement between the soldier and the truck driver at the checkpoint.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that this incident, which took place on Boxing Day, prompted commercial drivers to stage a protest boycott of the busy border road, resulting in numerous travelers being stranded.
Confirming the soldier's arrest on Thursday through a statement, Lt. Col. A.Y. Jingina, the 7 Division Public Relations Officer, stated that the Army had initiated an investigation following a complaint from the National Union of Road Transport Workers.
The statement conveyed, “Additionally, discussions have been initiated with the NURTW to facilitate a peaceful resolution of the incident.
"The division has pledged its dedication to ensuring justice for the deceased's family, assuring both the family and the NURTW that every necessary measure will be taken.
"As part of the division's proactive approach to securing justice for the victim's family, the implicated soldier has been apprehended, and a comprehensive investigation has been initiated."
"It is important to note that the division unequivocally disapproves of any instance of unprofessional conduct by any personnel, as we consistently adhere to the principles of the law."
"The division affirms once again its commitment to maintaining resolute and professional conduct in the collaborative effort to address insecurity in Borno State."
In response to the incident, the Borno State Government, represented by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, expressed its proactive involvement in ensuring justice.
“The government is actively monitoring this situation and will take all necessary steps to ensure a thorough investigation and prosecution of suspects. Those found guilty will face the full consequences of the law.
“Meanwhile, the Borno State Government urges the general public, especially members of the Road Transport Workers Union, to exercise patience and maintain decorum while the matter is handled in accordance with the law,” Tar appealed.
The 7 Division of the Nigerian Army stands as the most recently established division among the six divisions of the Nigerian Army.
Its formation was prompted by the imperative to effectively confront the challenges posed by insurgency, terrorism, and armed banditry in the North Eastern region of the country.
According to information gathered from the military website, the 7 Division became operational on August 22, 2013, and its operational jurisdiction encompasses three North Eastern states: Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe.
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