The Headquarters Theatre Command, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has arrested five suspects over the unauthorised discharge of firearms during a wedding celebration in Ngomari, Maiduguri, an incident that led to the tragic death of a young girl.
In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the incident occurred at about 2:00 p.m. on April 4, 2026, in the Ngomari general area.
According to the statement, troops of Operation HADIN KAI, working in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), traced and arrested five suspects linked to the unlawful use of firearms during the social event held at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Teachers Staff Quarters.
The suspects were identified as Muhammad Husaini (28), Abba Jiddu (25), Abba Kolo Mohammed (20), Ali Adam (20), and Nura Mohammed (18).
Military authorities said the suspects were part of a vigilante escort team attached to the chairman of a local government area and allegedly engaged in sporadic gunfire into the air during the wedding ceremony.
The reckless discharge reportedly resulted in the death of a young girl, triggering swift intervention by security operatives.
Operation HADIN KAI condemned the act, describing it as highly unprofessional, unauthorised, and a clear violation of established regulations governing the handling and use of firearms.
The Theatre Command stressed that the CJTF operates strictly as a support group and is not permitted to engage in indiscriminate or unauthorised use of firearms, particularly in civilian settings.
It further disclosed that the five suspects are currently in custody and would be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution in line with extant laws.
The military also announced that a comprehensive investigation has commenced in collaboration with relevant state authorities, including the Office of the Senior Adviser on Security to the Borno State Government, to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure all those responsible are brought to justice.
While noting that the security situation in the affected area remains calm, the Theatre Command said troops have maintained heightened vigilance to preserve law and order.
Operation HADIN KAI extended condolences to the bereaved family and reaffirmed its commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of civilians
