Tensions Explode: Police officer shot dead by soldiers in Bauchi

A police officer was shot and killed during a violent clash between personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and soldiers in Bauchi State on Friday.

The Bauchi State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement issued Saturday by its spokesperson,  Ahmed Wakil, who identified the slain officer as Constable Ukasha Muhammed.

According to the police, the confrontation occurred in the Bayan Gari area of Bauchi metropolis during a routine patrol led by Inspector Hussaini Samaila.

Wakil explained that the patrol team responded to an assault on Constable Muhammed by two individuals outside Padimo Hotel. Officers managed to apprehend one suspect, while the other fled the scene.

The arrested suspect was later identified as Private Usman Mubarak (23NA/84/5346), a soldier attached to the Joint Task Force, Operation Safe Haven, in Jos, Plateau State.

Tensions escalated when two other soldiers—Private Yakubu Yahuza (23NA/85/10185) and Private Godspower Gabriel (23NA/84/5654)—arrived at the scene, reportedly armed and partially dressed in military uniforms.

“They approached the team and fatally shot Constable Ukasha Muhammed in the left side of the chest before fleeing the scene,” Wakil stated.

The injured officer was rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, where he was confirmed dead. His body has been deposited at the hospital mortuary.

Following the incident, the Bauchi State Police Command launched a full-scale homicide investigation. The two soldiers involved in the shooting have reportedly been taken into custody.

“The Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has assembled a team of experienced homicide detectives to ensure a thorough and timely investigation to bring those responsible to justice,” Wakil said.

He urged police personnel to remain calm and exercise restraint as investigations continue. The Commissioner also extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased officer.

“May his soul rest in peace, and may Aljannatul Firdausi be his final abode. We pray Almighty Allah grants his family the strength to bear this great loss,” the statement concluded.