Adamawa Police Open Probe Into Alleged Soldier Shooting Of Mubi Businessman

Police in Adamawa have opened an investigation after a businessman was allegedly shot during an encounter with soldiers in Mubi North Local Government Area.

The victim was identified by residents as Suleiman Abu. A police statement cited by Punch said the report was made on August 3 by Muslim Abubakar of Yelwa Ward, Mubi North, who said his younger brother, named in the statement as Suleiman Abubakar, sustained a gunshot injury on the night of August 2 during an encounter with military personnel.

Police said operatives from Mubi North visited the scene after the report and ensured the victim received medical attention. He was first taken to a medical facility in Mubi before being referred to a higher hospital in Yola for further treatment.

Adamawa Commissioner of Police Kabiru Hassan directed the State Criminal Investigation Department to investigate the circumstances of the shooting. The command also urged residents to remain calm while the inquiry proceeds.

Daily Trust reported that residents said the incident happened around 8:40pm on Sunday, before the 9pm to 6am restriction on motorcycle movement. According to that account, Abu was riding an electric motorcycle, turned back towards home after noticing soldiers on patrol, and was later shot near his residence.

Witnesses cited by Daily Trust alleged that the bullet grazed his shoulder before hitting his lower jaw. The report also said neighbours apprehended the soldier after the gunshot, but he was later released after intervention by his superiors and community elders.

The case has angered residents in Mubi, who are demanding accountability. Police had not announced any findings in the reports, and the victim was still receiving treatment in Yola.

Sources: Punch, Daily Trust