The Niger State Police Command has apprehended four soldiers suspected of involvement in the fatal stabbing of an officer from the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
The suspects Identified as Sani Munzani, Abubakar Auwalu, Abubakar Sani, and Muazu Hassan, reportedly hail from various regions across Nigeria.
The revelation surfaced through a statement issued by the state Police Public Relations Officer (PRO), SP Wasiu Abiodun, stationed in Minna.
According to Abiodun, the grim incident unfolded on March 9, 2024, at approximately 1820hrs, when a team of vigilant NDLEA officers conducted a routine stop and search operation at Ramat Junction, Bida.
During the operation, two individuals, believed to be soldiers but not donning uniforms, arrived on a motorcycle at the scene.
Upon interception, they failed to provide sufficient identification, triggering suspicion among the NDLEA team.
Despite a search yielding no incriminating evidence, a confrontation ensued, escalating tensions.
Amidst the confrontation, the situation took a tragic turn as one of the NDLEA officers, Kingsley Chimetalo, fell victim to a fatal stabbing in the back by one of the suspects wielding a jack-knife.
Tragically, Chimetalo succumbed to his injuries despite immediate medical attention at FMC Bida. Adding to the horror, the assailants seized Chimetalo’s rifle during the scuffle, exacerbating the gravity of the situation.
In the aftermath of the harrowing ordeal, law enforcement agencies launched a comprehensive investigation, collaborating closely with the 18 Brigade of the Nigerian Army stationed in Bida.
Through diligent efforts, six soldiers were identified, subsequently facing court-martial proceedings leading to their dismissal, while two managed to evade capture.
However, the relentless pursuit of justice persisted, culminating in the recent apprehension and subsequent handover of the four suspects to the police for prosecution on May 20, 2024.
Notably, Sani Munzani, among the detained soldiers, confessed to the fatal stabbing, adding a grim layer of detail to the unfolding tragedy.
Currently, all suspects remain under thorough investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Minna, awaiting imminent legal proceedings pending the conclusion of investigations.
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