Three killed as policemen, soldiers clash

Three persons were killed when soldiers and policemen clashed in Damaturu, the Yobe state capital on Wednesday.

Many persons, including soldiers, policemen and civilians were injured in the deadly clash between the two groups.

The whole Damaturu was as if it was a theatre of war as continuous gunshots and sounds of heavy artillery were heard, with many residents avoiding the streets.

Financial institutions, Government establishments and people who opened for the day’s business were forced to close early because of the fight.

A police squadron commander was said to have been abducted by the soldiers during the fight.

Up and untill the writing of this report, the cause of the fight had yet to be known.

Many of the security personnel and civilians who sustained injuries were seen at the accident and emergency ward of the State Specialists’ Hospital, Damaturu, receiving treatment when our correspondent visited.

Three corpses of security personnel were equally seen deposited at the hospital morgue, but both the military and the police said they were yet to confirm the casualty figure.

Meanwhile, a security meeting between the military, the police and the DSS which is chaired by the the deputy governor, Abubakar Aliyu, was held behind closed doors at the Government House, Damaturu after the ceasefire.

Speaking to newsmen at the end of the meeting the commander of the 27 Task Force Brigade, Buniyadi, General Aminu Bande, said a committee had been set up to investigate the matter and ensure justice was done.