Muhammed Abubakar, Reporting
THE Headquarters Theatre Command of Operation HADIN KAI has launched a comprehensive investigation into the alleged killing of a civilian by military personnel in Maiduguri, describing the incident as one with potential underlying security implications.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Theatre Command addressed social media reports alleging that troops shot and killed one Abdulrahman Mustapha, also known as Abchin, on 22 March 2026, along the Polo Axis near the Federal High Court in Maiduguri. The reports claimed the deceased was unarmed and returning from a Sallah visit, characterising the incident as an extrajudicial killing and calling for an independent investigation, accountability, and compensation.
The Command described the allegations as “very serious” and said it had initiated appropriate processes to establish the facts. However, it noted that preliminary operational indicators suggest the incident, which reportedly occurred at approximately 11:40pm, may not be straightforward.
“A comprehensive and impartial investigation is currently ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident, including compliance with the applicable Rules of Engagement and operational procedures,” the statement read.
Initial findings, according to the Command, indicate the possibility that troops may have encountered individuals consistent with a Boko Haram or Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) reconnaissance element or sleeper cell operating within the area. This assessment is based on several factors, including reports that the individual in question allegedly attempted to snatch a soldier’s rifle—an action indicative of hostile intent and a direct threat to troops’ safety.
The Command further disclosed that the deceased was reportedly found in possession of multiple identification cards bearing different names from that cited in the petition, including a foreign identification card from the Niger Republic, which may suggest cross-border movement, possible infiltration, or the use of a decoy identity.
Additionally, the individual was found with a bottle of Tutolin syrup and several wraps of weed suspected to be cannabis sativa. He was also reportedly in the company of two unidentified women who fled the scene, raising concerns about possible accomplices who remain at large. Eyewitness accounts, the Command added, suggest that the individual’s conduct prior to the incident was suspicious, prompting a distress call to the nearest military location.
The Command stressed that these preliminary details remain subject to verification and should not be construed as definitive conclusions. It assured that the ongoing investigation would seek to clarify all aspects of the incident, including the sequence of events, the actions of all parties involved, and any relevant operational context.
All relevant components of Operation HADIN KAI have been directed to intensify efforts to identify and apprehend the fleeing individuals, as they may provide critical information relevant to ongoing security operations.
The Theatre Command assured the public that due process would be followed and that any findings would be addressed in accordance with applicable laws and military regulations.
It reaffirmed Operation HADIN KAI’s commitment to the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and the protection of human rights, while continuing to fulfil its mandate of safeguarding lives and maintaining security within the theatre of operations.
