By Ovie Okpare
The Nigerian Army on Thursday says a soldier who reportedly shot dead a senior officer on Wednesday in Borno State has been arrested.
It said the soldier suspected to be suffering from depression opened fire on the officer, killing him on the spot.
A statement signed by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Sagir Musa, confirmed the incident, saying an investigation has been launched to unravel the remote cause of the incident.
The statement which, however, did not disclosed the identity of the late officer, said that deceased was making call in front of the Unit’s Headquarters when he was murdered.
The suspect is a trooper of the Nigerian Army serving in 202 Battalion of 21 Special Armoured Brigade Bama, Borno.
Colonel Musa said the Nigerian Army had already contacted the family of the deceased and informed them of the development.
“A trooper of the Nigerian Army serving in 202 Battalion of 21 Special Armoured Brigade Bama, Borno State, went beserk at about 1030 hours on the 29th of July 2020 and fired at an officer (a Subaltern) which led to his death.
“The incident happened when the soldier approached the officer who was standing in front of the Unit’s Headquarters making a phone call.
“The soldier has been arrested, is in custody undergoing investigation. General situation in the unit is calm”, the statement said.
It noted that the remains of the deceased officer had been evacuated to 7 Division Medical Service and Hospital.
According to it, “The remains of the deceased officer have been evacuated to 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital.
“Investigation into the case has since been instituted to determine the circumstances that led to the unfortunate incident.
“The family of the deceased has already been contacted. The Nigerian Army sympathises and condoles with the family at this trying moment, and pray to the Almighty God to repose the soul of the departed and grant his family and other loved ones the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. May his gentle soul rest in peace.”
