A 15-year-old girl, Zainab Usman, was tragically killed by a stray bullet discharged from a Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) operative in Maiduguri on Saturday.

Sources have disclosed to our correspondent that the incident occurred at Kanti Goma Shabiyu, Umarari Bolori 2 ward, on Baga Road, as CJTF personnel from Sector 10 were attempting an arrest.

The fatal incident involved 27-year-old Abba Sidi Mala, a CJTF operative, whose firearm accidentally discharged, resulting in a head injury to Zainab Usman.

“This is a deeply regrettable incident,” a source familiar with the situation stated. “The accidental discharge led to the tragic loss of a young life.”

According to eyewitness a security patrol team responded swiftly, rushing the victim to the State Specialist Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Her remains were subsequently released to her family for burial according to Islamic rites on Saturday around 4:00 pm.

The suspect, Abba Sidi Mala, has been taken into custody by the police. An investigation is currently underway to determine the precise circumstances surrounding the accidental discharge.

The incident has raised concerns regarding the handling of firearms by CJTF operatives and has prompted calls for increased oversight and more training.