Tears flow as army officer killed by policeman laid to rest

The Nigerian Army has buried Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Ali Haruna, who was shot dead by a mobile police inspector at a checkpoint in Futuk, Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

Haruna, who served as Guard Commander at the checkpoint, was killed on August 25 while stopping a truck allegedly transporting illegally mined solid minerals.

His funeral on Thursday in Bauchí, conducted with full Islamic rites and military honors, drew senior military officers, family members, colleagues, and community leaders who came to bid him farewell.

Security analyst Zagozola Makama reported that the atmosphere was heavy with grief as soldiers bore Haruna’s flag-draped coffin to his final resting place. Mourners praised him as a loyal officer who gave his life in service to the country.

Brig.-Gen. U.J. Simon, Commander of the 33 Artillery Brigade, led the military delegation to the burial and paid glowing tribute to the fallen officer. “A gallant officer whose loyalty and sacrifice will never be forgotten,” he said.

Simon added that a full investigation was underway to ensure justice. “The army is working closely with the police to prevent a repeat of this kind of tragedy,” he assured.

The suspect, a police inspector identified as Yusuf Ibrahim, remains in army custody, while the intercepted truck has been impounded as part of ongoing investigations.