Tragedy struck in the early hours of Wednesday in Sarkin-Pawa, Munya Local Government Area of Niger State, as a police inspector, Bassey Asuquo, allegedly shot himself dead while on special duty.
Inspector Asuquo, attached to the 28 Police Mobile Force (PMF), Umuahia, Abia State, was part of a team deployed to the area for a special assignment. The incident reportedly occurred around 1:50 a.m., under circumstances that have prompted an internal investigation.
Sources close to the situation told Business Hallmark that the officer had been exhibiting signs of distress and erratic behaviour in the days leading up to the incident. In response, his unit commander had reportedly ordered the withdrawal of his service rifle, which was then secured at the Sarkin-Pawa Police Division.
Despite this precaution, Asuquo is believed to have accessed a firearm belonging to a fellow officer who was asleep at the time. He then allegedly used the weapon to fatally shoot himself in the head.
His remains have been taken to the General Hospital in Sarkin-Pawa, where they are awaiting further examination.
When contacted, the Niger State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incident and said that a thorough investigation was already underway.
“Yes, the incident is confirmed. Further investigation is ongoing to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the unfortunate event,” Abiodun stated.
The case has once again raised serious questions about the psychological pressures faced by officers in the line of duty, particularly those posted to remote or volatile areas for special operations.
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