Tragedy struck in Zamfara State when Halliru Liman, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Wasagu Division in Kebbi State, was reportedly shot dead by a soldier at a military checkpoint.
The incident occurred in the Danmarke area of Bukkuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
The spokesperson for the Zamfara State Police Command, ASP Yazid Abubakar, confirmed the incident in a statement on Thursday.
According to Abubakar, DPO Liman was en route to Birnin Kebbi in Kebbi State to attend a meeting when his journey was abruptly cut short at the military checkpoint manned by personnel attached to Operation Dadarin Daji.
Despite identifying himself as a police officer, Liman was shot on the spot by the soldier.
The Zamfara State Police Command has called for a thorough investigation into the incident, stressing the need for accountability and justice.
The statement reads, “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 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.”