Army arrests officer over ‘death of truck driver’ in Borno

The 7 Division of the Nigerian army in Maiduguri says it has arrested a soldier allegedly involved in the death of a truck driver along Gamboru-Dikwa road.

In a statement on Thursday, A.Y. Jingina, spokesperson of the division, said the incident occurred on boxing day at a checkpoint where soldiers were deployed for routine operations.

He said the soldier involved in the incident has been arrested and an investigation has commenced.

Jingina said following the incident, the division established a rapport with the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in order to curtail a crisis.

“The division has assured both the family of the deceased and the NURTW of its commitment towards ensuring that justice is served to the family and no stone would be left unturned in this regard,” he said.

“The division wishes to once again reassure the members of the general public that we will remain resolute and professional in the joint effort to tackle insecurity in Borno state.”

Usman Tar, the state’s commissioner of information, said the case will be “properly investigated” and the government will ensure justice is served.

“The government is following up on this matter and will take all necessary measures to ensure that the matter is properly investigated and suspects are prosecuted. Anyone who is found guilty will face the full wrath of the law,” the statement added.

“Meanwhile, the Borno state government urges the general public, particularly members of the road transport workers union, to maintain patience and decorum while the matter is handled according to the law.”