Stray Bullet Tragedy: Troops Arrest Five Over Illegal Gunfire at Maiduguri Wedding
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
The Headquarters Theatre Command of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) has arrested five suspects following a tragic stray bullet incident in Maiduguri, Borno State, where a young girl lost her life during a wedding celebration marred by unauthorized gunfire.
The development was disclosed in a press release issued by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, SANI UBA Lieutenant Colonel who confirmed that the arrests were made in connection with the unlawful discharge of firearms in the Ngomari area.
According to the statement, the incident occurred at about 2:00 p.m. on April 4, 2026, at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Teachers Staff Quarters, where individuals identified as members of an escort team attached to a local government chairman engaged in sporadic shooting during a wedding ceremony.
“The reckless act led to the death of a young girl. Acting swiftly, troops traced and apprehended five suspects,” Uba said.
The suspects were identified as Muhammad Husaini (28), Abba Jiddu (25), Abba Kolo Mohammed (20), Ali Adam (20), and Nura Mohammed (18), and are currently in custody pending further investigation and prosecution.
The Theatre Command strongly condemned the incident, describing it as a grave violation of firearm regulations and professional conduct.
“The act is highly unprofessional, unauthorised, and a clear violation of established regulations governing the handling and use of firearms,” the statement noted.
It further emphasized that members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) are only permitted to operate as support personnel and are not authorized to engage in indiscriminate use of weapons, especially in civilian settings.
“The Civilian Joint Task Force operates strictly as a support group and is not permitted to engage in indiscriminate use of firearms under any circumstances,” Uba added.
The command also revealed that a comprehensive investigation has been launched in collaboration with relevant Borno State authorities to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure accountability.
“A comprehensive investigation has been initiated… to ensure that all those found culpable are brought to justice,” the statement said.
While assuring residents that the security situation remains under control, the military expressed condolences to the bereaved family and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians.
“The Theatre Command extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of civilians,” Uba concluded.
