Soldier guns down police DPO at military checkpoint

Halliru Liman, Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Wasagu Division of the police in Kebbi state, has been confirmed dead.

According to Yazid Abubakar, spokesman of the Zamfara State Police Command, Liman died after being “shot dead by a soldier” at a checkpoint in the state.

Abubakar said the deceased police officer was on his way to Birnin Kebbi in Kebbi State to attend a meeting when he was stopped on the way at Danmarke area in Bukkuyum LGA of Zamfara by military personnel attached to Operation Dadarin Daji.

He said the officer was murdered on the spot by the military personnel, despite identifying himself as a police officer.

In a statement on Thursday, the command’s spokesperson demanded a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident so as to ensure those responsible are brought to book.

“On August 28, 2024, at approximately 1030 hours, SP Liman was brutally murdered by military personnel led by one Hassan, attached to OPHD Sector 6, Dan Marke area of Bukkuyum, Zamfara State,” the statement said.

“The circumstances surrounding this heinous crime are alarming and unacceptable.

“SP Liman, who was on his way to attend a monthly conference in Birnin Kebbi, was stopped by military personnel despite identifying himself as a police officer.

“In a shocking display of aggression, Hassan pointed his gun at SP Liman and shot him in the head, resulting in his instant death. We condemn this unprovoked attack in the strongest possible terms and demand a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident.

“The military’s actions are a clear violation of the rules of engagement and the principles of inter-agency cooperation. We urge the relevant authorities to take immediate action to address this egregious incident and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

“The police and military must work together to maintain peace and security, not engage in violent confrontations that undermine public trust. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and colleagues of SP Halliru Liman and assure them that we will do everything in our power to ensure justice is served.”