Niger Police Arrest Soldier for Armed Robbery and Assault on Businessman
Private Sadiq Sani, a soldier, was arrested for allegedly attacking businessman Abdulrahman Salihu during a robbery attempt. The attack resulted in severe injuries to Salihu, who was hospitalized with severed fingers. Sani was later apprehended after fleeing his home, and an investigation has been initiated by military police for potential court martial proceedings.
Authorities in Niger State apprehended Private Sadiq Sani, a soldier, for his alleged involvement in an armed robbery and assault against local businessman Abdulrahman Salihu. The incident occurred on Eid-el-Fitr when Sani visited Salihu’s shop with the intent to purchase shirts. After the payment, Sani requested the shop owner’s account details ostensibly for an electronic money transfer.
However, Sani allegedly sent a fraudulent payment alert, leading Salihu to distrust the transaction. When Salihu demanded the actual transfer before handing over the merchandise, Sani unexpectedly drew a sharp knife and attacked him. During the assault, Sani reportedly severed three fingers from Salihu’s hand before fleeing the scene.
Neighbors attempted to apprehend Sani but were unsuccessful as he escaped to his residence in Limawa, Minna. The Niger State police later located him at his home, where he engaged in a confrontation with heavily armed officers before being subdued and taken into custody.
The case was referred to the military police, with Captain U.S. Ibrahim from the 313 Brigade tasked with a thorough investigation. Ibrahim stated that the military intends to present charges to a court martial for Sani’s misconduct, with a subsequent prosecution by civil authorities.
Wasiu Abiodun, spokes person for the Niger State Police Command, confirmed Sani’s arrest, noting that he and an accomplice were detained for further investigation and legal actions. The police’s report highlighted the gruesome nature of the attack and the escalation of the confrontation. Initial investigations revealed Salihu was selling shoes locally when the altercation over the payment arose, resulting in the attack and the subsequent loss of his fingers. Further action against both suspects is underway under the jurisdiction of SCID Minna.
The arrest of Private Sadiq Sani underscores the serious nature of the allegations against him, highlighting issues of soldier misconduct in the civilian realm. With a military investigation set to precede criminal prosecution, the case opens discussions on accountability. This incident emphasizes the importance of law enforcement collaboration between military and civilian sectors in addressing crime effectively.
Original Source: punchng.com
